5 Keys to Restful Sleep (Without Sleep Aids)

Hello fellow Steemians. I've seen many posts on social media about difficulties with sleep. I used to struggle quite a bit in this category, but I have unlocked some strategies to combat the issue and without drugs/sleep aids. Taking pills to help you sleep isn't attacking the root of the cause. I hope these tips will help you.

1. Correct imbalance in circadian rhythms.- This is by far the most important factor. The best way to fix this is to go camping. Our modern lifestyles, full of computers, electronic screens, and lights has hampered our ability for our bodies to differentiate between night and day. When camping(especially in an isolated area), it is much darker than a typical suburban/urban environment. Our bodies are much more adept at getting a restful sleep in this environment. If you camp often enough, your circadian rhythms will be set for a longer period. If you are unable to camp, even sleeping in your back yard will help.

2. Go to Bed Early- Again related to our modern lifestyles. I mean unless you're still in a frat and having keggers, there's no reason to stay up until 2AM. Turn off all the lights and block out as much outside(street lights) light as well. For 99% of human existence, humans went to sleep a few hours after sunset, and woke up at the crack of dawn. Now, there are people who sleep during the day and work at night! Not healthy at all, though I appreciate the sacrifice.

3. Avoid using electronic devices an hour before bed- This one is probably the toughest to follow. I know it's tempting to check your text messages and Facebook just before hitting the hay. It's certainly detrimental to a restful nights sleep. Keep your phone charging in a room separate from the one you sleep in.

4. Eat healthy: This one may be overlooked quite a bit. If you aren't satisfied at the end of the night, you will go to bed hungry and not receive as restful a sleep. On the other end of the spectrum, if you overeat just before bed, it will present problems as well. I recommend a whole foods plant based diet.

5. Exercise!: I feel the underlying issue behind many people's sleep problems is that they live too sedentary a lifestyle! If you wear yourself out physically, there's no need to mask the real issue with drugs like Ambien. I won't ever forget how quickly I dozed off after a 15 mile hike last year. Whatever your preferred exercise method, just make sure you stay disciplined!

I hope you have gained some insight from this blog. I feel a restful sleep is key to living a healthy happy lifestyle!