How to Guarantee a Goodnights Sleep

Summary

The article provides guidance on improving sleep quality, emphasizing individual needs and practical tips over a one-size-fits-all approach.

Abstract

The article "How to Guarantee a Goodnight's Sleep" underscores the importance of sleep as essential for health and well-being, rather than a mere option. It acknowledges that sleep requirements vary among individuals, with some functioning well on less than the commonly recommended 7–8 hours. The author suggests creating a relaxing bedtime routine, avoiding stimulating activities and substances before sleep, ensuring a dark and quiet sleeping environment, and considering hypnosis for persistent sleep issues. The goal is to transform the bed into a sanctuary that one looks forward to retreating to at the end of the day.

Opinions

The author believes that sleep is a critical component of both physical and mental health.
They challenge the idea that everyone needs a prescribed amount of sleep, noting that some individuals may function optimally on less.
The article expresses that the primary cause of insomnia is an overactive mind, with anxiety and worry exacerbating the issue.
It is suggested that an "unwind technique" is crucial for good sleep hygiene.
The author advises against consuming food, drink, or alcohol close to bedtime.
A comfortable and inviting bedroom setup is considered important for a good night's sleep.
Electronic devices should be kept out of the bedroom to maintain a sleep-conducive environment.
The use of meditative music is recommended for some, while others may prefer silence.
The author posits that self-suggestion can be a powerful tool to ease into sleep, reassuring oneself that the day's concerns can wait until morning.
For those struggling with sleep despite these measures, the author offers hypnosis as a potential solution, having seen success with clients in the past.

How to Guarantee a Goodnights Sleep

Sleep is Nature’s Medicine

Sleep is a necessity. It is not an option.

I’m not suggesting you should hang about in a gum tree, although it does look blissful.

Many people have difficulty in getting to sleep and many others fall asleep easily but wake during the night and can’t go back to sleep.

Sleep is a vital part of good physical and mental health. It is generally recommended that adults need at least 7–8 hrs. But being prescriptive about the number of hours can cause harm for some. I have a friend who functions perfectly on 5–6 hrs. every night. He has a demanding job, and his productivity is amazing.

If you function perfectly well on less than the ‘recommended’ sleep time, then you do not have insomnia or sleep issues.

I would be a mess if I only had 5–6 hrs sleep. I need at least 9 hrs and if I can squeeze in 10 even better.

So you do not have to TRY to have the ‘recommended’ 8 hrs sleep. If you are happy with less, or more, then enjoy.

I love my bed, I love falling asleep, and I love the slow drift into full consciousness in the morning.

Too many people ‘suffer’ (I hate the word) from insomnia. But the suffering is profound when it impacts every part of your life.

Insomnia Cycle

What is the Cause?

The main cause of insomnia is not being able to shut down that busy mind, thinking and worrying, worrying and thinking. Anxiety increases as the night goes on and on and on!

Tips to get a good night sleep

develop an unwind technique at the end of the day. e.g. watch something light hearted on TV — NO NEWS!

slow down on food and drink at least 2 hrs prior to getting into bed AND no alcohol!

make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet

have a bed makeover. Some new sheets, quilt cover, pillow. Make your bed as inviting as possible, so you can look forward to slipping in-between those beautiful sheets

No phone, TV, laptop anywhere near the bedroom

meditative music can be helpful for some, others prefer the quiet

Say to yourself (your unconscious mind) when you slip into bed: ‘this is my secret escape from work, parenting, daily ‘stuff’. No-one can contact me and I can’t attend to anything right now, as I drift off to sleep. All that stuff will be there for me in the morning. Just as I left it. Nothing can be done or needs to be done right now.’

Need further help? Hypnosis can change the pattern in your unconscious mind. I have worked successfully with many who have sleep issues. You don’t have to ‘suffer’.

I want you to love your bed, love falling asleep, and love the slow drift into full consciousness in the morning.