What is insomnia? Insomnia is the inability to sleep either regularly
such as naps or at night when necessary. Where does insomnia derive
from? The honest answer is reasons for insomnia can vary. For some
people they may suffer from insomnia due to daily stressors such as
their job, tasks, and amount of responsibilities they may have. For
others it could be due to a chemical imbalance such as anxiety,
depression, or even deeply rooted stress.
Regardless, insomnia is a condition that many people suffer from for
many different reasons. When insomnia is experienced it can be both
mentally and physically exhausting as the much needed rest that is
required each day for the human body to function properly is not
obtained. For many, prescription drugs are the first solution that is
thought of to rid insomnia however, prescription drugs can create a
dependency that will eventually need to be sustained and may cause side
effects.
Fortunately there are several different natural remedies that may
help individuals alleviate their insomnia. Natural remedies are a great
first choice to try before prescription drugs as they will not harm the
body or force the body to experience unwanted side effects. Natural
remedies for insomnia range from physical exercise routines to drinking
and even bathing with various organic supplements and herbs.
Change of Diet
Eating healthy is the first natural remedy to reducing and ultimately
ridding yourself entirely of insomnia. Processed foods as well as
packaged foods are loaded with carbohydrates, trans fats and sugars and
can cause mid-day drowsiness when consumed regularly. The same rule of
thumb also applies to an over excessive amount of coffee throughout the
day as well as other caffeinated drinks and even energy drinks. By
eating healthy, such as consuming raw produce, eating a balanced meal
three to five times daily, and consuming water, the body will begin a
consistent routine and will reserve energy for the day and gradual rest
for the night.
Physical Exercise
Physical exercise is also an important remedy to reducing and ridding
insomnia altogether. However, due to some peoples occupations physical
exercise may be hard to obtain. This is because most 21st century jobs
demand an eight hour day of either sitting or standing in primarily one
place. If this sort of occupation applies to you than try to make time
for basic stretching routines and exercise routines for in the morning
prior to the beginning of the day and for at night towards the end of
the day. Physical exercise; yoga, stretching, and light weight lifting
will help the body to burn additional energy that may be stored as well
as increase adrenaline and help regulate blood flow.
Herbs and Supplements
Various herbs and supplements also help to reduce insomnia and can be
used by themselves or in collusion with a healthy diet and physical
exercise. Some herbs for example that may help an individual become
drowsy and drift to sleep are chamomile, kava kava, passionflower, and
lavender. If using lavender be sure to purchase lavender essential oil
and place one to two drops in a hot bath in order to increase drowsiness
through aromatherapy. If the herbs do not provide the relaxation sought
after than an over the counter organic supply of melatonin will also
help with increasing drowsiness. However, in order for melatonin to work
efficiently lights and sounds from radios, laptops, and televisions
must be turned off as this will prevent melatonin from taking full
effect. |
