Insomnia is a common problem experienced by a large number of adults as well as some children, especially during exam time and other stressful times. Insomnia can include not being able to get off to sleep, waking up frequently during the night or waking up very early and not being able to get back to sleep. It can be closely linked to depression, anxiety and stress. Chronic insomnia can be very distressing making it difficult for the sufferer to carry out normal activities.
Stresses during the day which are not resolved can keep us awake, or wake us up in the middle of the night. Exams, moving house, sudden changes such as a bereavement or relationship breakdown can all contribute to sleeplessness.
As a Holistic Therapist and someone who from personal experience understands just how distressing insomnia can be, I hope some of the following will help anyone who ever has sleep problems.
Gentle exercise such as yoga, swimming or going for a short walk can all help you to sleep. I would not however recommend heavy exercise just before going to bed. Listening to gentle music before bedime can be highly beneficial and try avoiding excessive use of mobile phones and computers just before bedtime. Watching distressing news items on the T.V just before going to bed may also disturb your sleep.
Make sure as well that you have a comfortable pillow and bedding suited to the room temperature so you don’t feel too hot or too cold. You may sleep better if you have the window slightly open with protection against insects if necessary in the Summer. If your thoughts are racing, try focusing on your breathing for as long as possible as you lie in bed or sit in a comfortable chair. Meditation can also help and classes are available where you can learn how to meditate and calm your thoughts (more about that in a future blog).
It is important to deal with stress early on in order to avoid it developing into a more serious condition. If you have worries which are going round your head try and take a little action each day rather than thinking too far into the future.
Aromatherapy, a gentle massage with pure essential oils can really help you to sleep as it relaxes the body as well as the mind. Mental and emotional health are as precious as physical health, indeed as the human body functions as an intergrated unit so that if you take care of one you take care of the other. A few drops of lavender oil put on a pillow can help you to drift off to sleep or you can try putting up to four drops in a bath before you go to bed.
People who suffer with M.E. (chronic muscle fatigue) often suffer from insomnia which can accompany depression. Four drops of chamomile, majoram or lavender oil in a warm bath can work wonders.
As a qualified Aromatherapist (V.T.C. Level 3) I have been carrying out Holistic Therapies including Aromatherapy, Reiki and Reflexology for nearly 20 years. Many of my clients in France where I now live in Haute Vienne, an hour North of Limoges, who come for Aromatherapy report improved sleeping patterns as well as other major benefits.
For further information about how Aromatherapy could benefit you and to book an appointment contact Linda Bullivant.
[email protected].
Tel: From the U.K. (0033) 555606408
From France: 05 55 60 64 08
Or contact: Linda Bullivant on Facebook
Visit: www.cabinetcerises.bell-vps.com for further information and prices.
