SLEEPLess

Can you remember the last time you slept a full eight hours at night? I am lucky if I can fall asleep before 2 a.m. and stay asleep for more than four hours most nights.

I have struggled with extreme insomnia for over ten years of my life. Some periods it was on and off, but for the most part it has affected me on many occasions. The thing about insomnia is it affects your mental space and then takes a toll on your body. I was increasingly becoming less productive at work, I felt less excited about things I loved, and I was catching a cold more often. My immune system was taking a hit and I was gaining weight.

I use to think it was cute being up all night and bragging about being a night owl. It seems to run in my family so I thought it was just one of those things that got passed down to me. It wasn’t until I truly processed why I was up all night and unable to sleep for extended periods of time. My brain was on overload constantly. I realized I was unhappy with my life - everything from work, financial problems, my relationship, and appearance. I spent most of my nights dwelling on these aspects of life and wishing for a way out. I clearly remember begging myself to go to sleep, but the knots in my chest just wouldn’t allow it.

Melatonin became candy to me and provided side effects that I just could not tolerate. My insomnia has significantly improved over the years, but I still struggle with it. Especially these last few months with everything going on in the world. The tools that have helped my over functioning brain at night are meditation and deep breathing. I’ve been intentional about pausing to do this when I feel myself laying in bed staring at the ceiling. Another tool I use is journaling, writing out your thoughts before bed helps more that one would think.

The newest edition to my insomnia tool kit is listening to a motivational speech before bed. It has a soothing affect on the mind and body. Controlling your mind is key! Figuring out ways that are best for you will help you get some much needed sleep.

Happy Sleeping Friends!

Below check out the guided meditation and motivational speeches I love: