No matter what stage of life you’re in, you never stop being a mom. Those stresses and worries you feel about life and motherhood never truly disappear, and this can significantly impact your quality of sleep. Sleep is vital to your overall health, so finding ways to relax should be a priority. If you still find yourself awake at all hours of the night, here are some sleep hacks for people who struggle with insomnia.
Limit Your Light Exposure
Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces that helps regulate your sleep cycle. However, light can dramatically influence this substance, and this could be the cause of your sleep problems.
One way to address this issue is to limit your light exposure. Avoid devices that produce blue light right before bed, like phones and computers, and make sure you’re always sleeping in a pitch-black room.
Create a Restful Routine
Your bedtime ritual should work for you, not against you. Creating a restful night routine is an essential sleep hack for people who struggle with insomnia because it can profoundly affect your ability to fall and stay asleep.
Make sure you’re only doing things that help you unwind, like taking a soothing shower or drinking a warm beverage. Working out at night increases adrenaline, so you can try exercising in the morning to free up time for more relaxing activities.
Be Smart About Naps
It’s easy for insomniacs to fall into a vicious napping cycle. When you don’t get enough sleep the night before, it might feel tempting to take a quick snooze during the day, making it harder to fall asleep later.
Napping is pretty counterproductive for people who already find sleeping a challenge, so it’s best to avoid it altogether. This might seem easier said than done, but it’s necessary if you want to get your sleep cycle back on track.
Use Sleep Aid Devices
One comforting fact about insomnia is that many people worldwide struggle with it, which means that there is an entire industry dedicated to helping people get rest.
Devices like white noise machines and blue light blockers allow people to fall asleep faster, and adjustable mattresses make it possible to personalize your comfort without bothering your partner. While holistic sleep aids work well for some, you should consider investing in a sleep aid device if supplements aren’t doing enough for you.
As your children grow and become more independent, you should take the time to care for your own well-being. Tackling your insomnia is the first step in developing healthy habits that will increase your quality of life.
