What to do when you can’t sleep and are bored
Tossing and turning in bed, staring at the ceiling, and thinking about how tired you’ll be in the morning – we’ve all been there. Insomnia and boredom at night are frustrating and can be harmful to your health. You may feel mentally foggy, physically exhausted, and irritable the next day. Developing healthy habits and incorporating relaxing activities into your routine can help you fall asleep peacefully and reduce stress at night. Here are a few tips for what to do when you can’t sleep and are bored.
Create a bedtime ritual
Having a consistent bedtime routine will help train your body to know when it’s time to sleep. This should include a few relaxing activities that gently prepare your mind and body for sleep. There are multiple activities that you can incorporate into your routine. For instance, taking a warm bath has a calming effect on your body and tells your body to relax. You can also try reading. It can be an excellent way to switch off from screens and steering clear of harsh light and, in turn, calm your mind.
Try relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, visualization, and meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety. They work by slowing down your heart rate and breathing rate, relaxing your muscles and calming your mind. You may find it difficult to stick with the meditation practice at first. It’s a skill that requires time and dedication to develop. You can start with 5 minutes and gradually increase the time as you get more comfortable. A guided meditation practice can offer an excellent resource for beginners.
Listen to audiobooks or podcasts
Getting lost in a good story can help distract your mind from racing thoughts and help you fall asleep. Audiobooks and podcasts can be an excellent way to pass the time at night while giving your brain a chance to rest. Choose something light and engaging that won’t stimulate your mind too much. Comedy podcasts can be particularly effective in alleviating tension and reinforcing joy.
Write or journal your thoughts
Writing down your thoughts is the surefire way to know that you are heading towards a peaceful sleep tonight. Putting your thoughts and worries on paper can be cathartic and help release negative emotions that may be keeping you awake. You can keep a gratitude journal or jot down your worries or long-term goals. Remember to keep a paper and pen near your bed.
Avoid screens before bed
Screen time before bed can interfere with your body’s natural sleep cycle, making it harder to fall asleep. The blue light emitted by most electronic devices can delay the production of melatonin, the hormone that controls your sleep-wake cycle. This can signal to your brain that it is time to wake up, making it harder to fall asleep. Reduce your screen time before bed by reading a book or practising relaxation techniques. Also, consider enabling your screen’s blue light filter.
Conclusion
The inability to sleep can be a frustrating experience, but there are plenty of ways to overcome it. These simple tips can help you create a healthier, more relaxed bedtime routine that prepares both the mind and body for restful sleep. Try different techniques and see what works best for you.
