{"id":1676,"date":"2024-12-23T15:53:16","date_gmt":"2024-12-23T20:53:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/?p=1676"},"modified":"2024-12-26T15:31:32","modified_gmt":"2024-12-26T20:31:32","slug":"what-is-insomnia-how-to-beat-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/what-is-insomnia-how-to-beat-it\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Insomnia &#038; How to Beat It"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Introduction<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It should be a very simple thing to go to sleep. How complex should something be that is an innate ability? It shouldn\u2019t take much effort at all.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It\u2019s an inborn ability, along with other certain bodily functions.\u00a0 When we\u2019re newborns, we can eat, sleep and wet the bed.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Our automatic functions continue throughout our lives.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">So you should just be able to close your eyes, relax and you are off to dreamland.\u00a0 But this is not an option for many, many people. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sleep doesn\u2019t come as easy as that.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There are approximately 60 million people who suffer from insomnia. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">These are statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and considered accurate.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When you break that down, that means insomnia affects approximately 40 percent of all women and 30 percent of all men.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">This condition seems to drive some people to the edge of madness, as they fight to get enough sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The effects can be devastating to those afflicted, and as F. Scott Fitzgerald once wrote, \u201cThe worst thing in the world is to try to sleep and not to.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There are so many with the affliction that sleep clinics have sprung up all over the country in an effort to help.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Overcoming insomnia may not be easy, but there is hope. Inside this report, we are going to explore the subject in depth to help you get a good night\u2019s sleep!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Chapter 1: What is Insomnia?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Insomnia is basically an inability to sleep and\/or to remain asleep for a reasonable period. It gives the feeling of daytime fatigue and impairs normal performance. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">People with insomnia can\u2019t sleep despite being tired, and when they do sleep, it\u2019s a light, fitful sleep that leaves them tired when they awake. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sometimes they simply wake up too early.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Here are common symptoms:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Frequent headaches<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Irritability<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Lack of concentration<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sleeping better away from home<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Taking longer than 30 or 40 minutes to fall asleep<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Feeling tired and not refreshed upon waking<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Waking repeatedly during the night<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Waking very early and not being able to fall back to sleep<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Only being able to sleep using sleeping pills or alcohol<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Insomniacs could be the product of our stress-filled society. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It is common knowledge that those with insomnia complain of being unable to close their eyes or rest their minds for any length of time. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Often, they are plagued with problems and to-do lists that never got done, worries and concerns that float around in their mind.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Some may only have insomnia for a few nights running, but sometimes it lasts longer. In fact, the affliction is often categorized by how long it lasts. <\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Here are the different types:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Transient insomnia lasts for a few days.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Short-term insomnia lasts no more than three weeks.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Chronic insomnia occurs when a person has difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiences non-refreshing sleep for at least three nights a week for one month or longer. Normal daily functioning is usually impaired.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When insomnia is the sole complaint of a patient it is considered Primary Chronic Insomnia. But there are also secondary disorders such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><em>Sleep apnea<\/em> &#8211; A sleep disorder caused by difficulty breathing during sleep. For more information, visit <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sleepapnea.org\">www.sleepapnea.org<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><em>Restless Legs Syndrome<\/em><em> &#8211; <\/em>A sleep disorder characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs or feet.\u00a0 These can be a creeping sensation, a burning, itching, or tugging feeling. Moving the legs around seems to relieve it. For more information, visit <a href=\"http:\/\/www.rls.org\">www.rls.org<\/a> .<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sometimes certain drugs and medications can create sleep disturbance. This can happen either when taking the medication or while withdrawing from it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When a person has some emotional difficulties, he can have trouble sleeping. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">If you find that when you go to bed and lay there worrying about numerous matters or if you are extremely sad or have a loss of interest, and this goes on for a number of weeks, you should consult your physician. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sometimes insomnia is defined as an inability to sleep at conventional times. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There is a condition where people fall asleep very late at night or in early morning hours, but then they sleep normally. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Or sometimes, as occurs with older people, they have excessive sleepiness in the morning or awaken very early in the morning.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It might help to look at the basic sleep patterns. Doctors use common patterns to identify specific problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The Sleep Cycle<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Just as basic as food and vital to both emotional and physical well being, sufficient sleep is a basic human need. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">And it has been found that sleep comes in cycles, on a daily rhythm. You have heard this referred to as the biologic clock.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It\u2019s the daily cycle of life, which includes sleeping and waking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The sleep-wake cycles in humans, per scientific study, are shown to be sparked by light signals coming through the eyes. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The response to these light signals in the brain is an important factor in sleep and also in keeping the normal rhythm.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The approach of dusk each day prompts the <em>pineal gland<\/em> in the body to produce the hormone called melatonin. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Experts believe that this hormone is critical for the body&#8217;s time sense. Levels of melatonin increase in darkness and the levels drop after staying in bright light. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In proof of these researches, it has been found that people who are totally blind often have trouble sleeping and have other body rhythm problems.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Daily rhythms can get interference or be changed by individual patterns. The monthly menstrual cycle can shift the pattern of sleeping and waking in women. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Changes in season can unsettle the sleeping pattern.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sleep consists of two separate stages, and understanding these is all part of understanding the sleep cycle. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">A person progresses through each of these stages about five or six times each night.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 14pt; color: #800000;\"><strong>The first is called Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep (Non-REM).\u00a0<\/strong> <\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Also called quiet sleep, it is further subdivided into three stages:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Stage 1 (light sleep).<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Stage 2 (so-called true sleep).<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Stage 3 to 4 (deep &#8220;slow-wave&#8221; or delta sleep).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Rapid Eye-Movement Sleep (REM) sleep is called active sleep. <\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">This is where most vivid dreams occur.\u00a0 REM-sleep brain activity during REM-sleep is comparable to brain activity in awake time, but the muscles are as if paralyzed. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">These phenomena could possibly be a protective mechanism of the body that prevents people from acting out their dreams.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">All this appears to be pretty simple and easy to understand, but why do some people have problems with these cycles?<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">What Causes Insomnia?<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There is no one reason why some have insomnia and others don\u2019t, but most experts do agree that it is often brought on by stress and anxiety.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Short-term insomnia, which is the most common, can be caused by many factors. Sometimes taking certain medications interrupts normal sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When you suspect your medications are causing you to lose sleep, you should check with a physician or pharmacist.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Caffeine often disrupts sleep, as we all have experienced at one time or another. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Even nicotine can cause wakefulness and quitting smoking can also be a cause of short-term insomnia.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Depending on the time of day too much or too little light can disrupt sleep.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There are many different causes. Another common cause can be a person\u2019s reaction to change or stress.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sometimes a major or traumatic event sparks an occurrence. Examples could be:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Injury or surgery<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The loss of a loved one<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Job loss<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Some develop temporary insomnia after a relatively minor event, like extremes in weather, an exam at school, trouble at work or even just traveling. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In most of these cases, when the condition resolves, normal sleep returns.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Treatment is usually resorted to when the sleepiness continues for more than a few weeks or interferes with the person\u2019s normal functioning. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">A full physical would be in order to see if there is some illness at the bottom of the problem.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">We should also be sure to address hormones, as they seem to play a major role in insomnia in women. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Although such insomnia is most often temporary, it can certainly play havoc in someone\u2019s life. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">During menstruation, the level of a certain hormone (progesterone) plunges, causing insomnia. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It\u2019s been shown that during pregnancy, this same hormone changes within the body greatly in the first three months and the last three months and that insomnia often results. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The same is true for menopause. But when you find a woman with chronic insomnia after the age of 50, it is likely due to other causes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Chronic Insomnia is another story. It seems to have more deep-seated roots. But it can be a mixture of reasons.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">A large percentage of chronic insomnia cases prove to have some sort of psychological basis. Most often, the cause of insomnia is anxiety and depression.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">But it should be noted that insomnia may itself cause emotional problems, so it is often unclear which condition triggered the other, or if they both have a common source. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Evidence exists in a national survey by the US Department of Health and Human Services. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">They found that 47 percent of those reporting severe insomnia also reported feeling a high level of emotional distress.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Pain and discomfort from an injury, illness, or disability can also impair sleep.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When people are in pain or sick, they generally have medication to help them through the uncomfortable symptoms.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Unfortunately, many of these medicines can also cause insomnia to come about or even to get worse.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Other causes have been shown to contribute to insomnia such as substance abuse, working on a shift such as all night shifts at work, high levels of stress hormones and imbalance in hormones. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The normal aging process has been known to cause insomnia, possibly due to hormonal changes. There may also be a genetic link.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">So, yes, many various factors contribute to this malady, but who suffers from it and does it affect some more than others?<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Who Has Insomnia?<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Studies have estimated that around one-third of all American and European adults have some insomnia during each year. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">About 10% or 20% of them suffer severe sleepless problems. It has also been shown that many (about 90%) who have depression suffer from insomnia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Individuals who have physical complaints, such as headaches and chronic pain with no identifiable cause also complain of insomnia. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">One study took place where patients who had these complaints were treated for a sleep disorder only and over 65% of those treated said that their headaches were cured.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Others who may suffer from insomnia are those who travel frequently, particularly those who cross time zones in their travel, and people who have post-traumatic stress syndrome.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">How Serious is Insomnia?<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Most everyone with insomnia complain of attention and memory problems. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">They also experience more irritability, make more mistakes on the job, and have poorer relationships with their family than people who sleep well.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In addition to more daytime sleepiness, insomnia can affect you waking behavior. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You may have reduced concentration, perform tasks less adeptly, have a poor learning curve. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Where stress and depression can cause insomnia, it has been shown that stress and the effects of it on the body can actually <em>produce<\/em> emotional problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In the US, there are around 1,500 deaths from accidents caused by falling asleep at the wheel. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In fact, per some studies, driving when drowsy is as risky as drunk driving.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">But rest assured, insomnia is virtually never lethal except in rare cases. There is one genetic disorder called fatal familial insomnia. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In this rare degenerative disease, the individual develops severe and unmanageable insomnia, which eventually becomes fatal.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Insomnia definitely takes its toll on the body and lack of sleep does a lot more than make us tired.\u00a0 It can even result in serious health problems.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">While there are many signs to watch for to judge if you have insomnia, you may need professional help to fully determine if you are suffering from insomnia.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 14pt; color: #800000;\">Diagnosing Insomnia<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It\u2019s important to diagnose the cause of any sleep disturbance in order to restore healthy sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Unfortunately, there is not much agreement, even among experts, on the best methods to assess a person\u2019s insomnia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Some difficulty is presented by the nature of insomnia, such as its subjective nature. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There are those who think they have insomnia where in actual fact, they are only having brief awakenings and only think they are continuously awake.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"> If a person is suffering from daytime fatigue and impaired concentration and memory, however, the chances are good that their problem classifies as insomnia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Questionnaires have been developed for the purpose of determining whether someone has insomnia or other sleep disorders. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Your physician may ask a number of questions like how you would describe the sleep problem, how long it\u2019s been going on, if you have trouble getting to sleep or in waking up early or the like. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">He may want to know if you take medications or are withdrawing from stimulants, such as coffee or tobacco.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sometimes it may be suggested that you keep a sleep diary. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In this diary, you would record your sleeping habits, including any information from a bed partner who can observe you first-hand.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Every day for two weeks you should write down the following in your sleep diary:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The time you went to bed and woke up<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Your total sleep hours<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The quality of sleep you feel you got<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">What you did during the times that you were awake<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">How much caffeine or alcohol you had and the times you had them<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">What kinds of food and drink you had and times of consumption<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Your feelings, such as whether you were happy, sad, had stress, etc.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Any drugs or medications taken and when<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There are other tests you might be given, such as something called a Multiple Sleep Latency Test<em>.<\/em> <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">This test (MSLT) uses a machine that measures the time it takes to fall asleep lying in a quiet room during the day. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It has limitations, however, and is usually used after other sleep disorders have been ruled out.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">But, in cases where a physician is unable to help, even with the tests he can perform, you may be referred to a sleep disorder clinic. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There they will attempt to diagnose and treat your problem.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Chapter 2: Sleep Disorder Clinics<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sleep disorder clinics are designed to diagnose sleep disorders and give you ways to overcome insomnia. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It might be intimidating to think about going to a clinic and trying to sleep with others watching you, but this is one specific reason these clinics succeed in finding answers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Once it has been determined that you should attend such a clinic, you may wonder what to expect.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Basically, you will be participating in a sleep study test that records your physical state while you sleep and through the various stages.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In this way, the technicians (or sleep specialists) can evaluate your specific complaints and check your blood oxygen level, muscle tone, heart rate, and all other general sleep behavior.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Follow all instructions from the clinic personnel regarding preparing yourself for the test. This may include limiting coffee intake and such things. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Which brings up what you should bring with you when you go in for testing:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Nightgown, pajamas or any comfortable sleep wear<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Your favorite pillow or blanket<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Toiletries<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">A change of clothes<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Any medications you normally use<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">A book, magazine or other reading materials<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Be sure to remove any nail polish and artificial nails and don\u2019t wear any make-up. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">This leaves a clean surface for any equipment that may be attached to monitor your sleep. On the day of the test itself, wash and dry your hair. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">This aids in preventing the electrodes that will be attached from sticking to your scalp.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Don\u2019t let the fact of so many attachments of equipment scare you. Surprisingly, it has not proven to make it difficult to sleep and the tests to go forward.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Once you are changed and ready to get into bed, you will have electrodes placed in specific areas. They are applied with easily removed glue and tape. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">These record brain waves, muscle movement, eye movement during sleep and other factors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"> A microphone will be attached to your neck to record snoring or other sounds you make while sleeping.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Despite the fact that you will be observed on a television monitor while you sleep, after the lights go out, very few patients say they have trouble falling asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In the morning when you are awakened, all the equipment is removed. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Then you will go and make an appointment with a sleep specialist to review the results of your tests.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Based on the results, and with the help of your sleep specialist or doctor, treatment will be recommended.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It depends on the type of disorder you are having, but there are many solutions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Medications That Can Help<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There is significant concern about using medications for treating insomnia. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Medication does not address the root of the problem, and ends up becoming a crutch to lean on rather than a cure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sleep medication should only be used as a very temporary aid for sleep problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Some of the concerns about using over-the-counter medications as well as prescription sleep medications are that people will development drug dependence. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There can be very detrimental physical side effects, or interactions with other drugs or chemicals in the body.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There are non-drug techniques that actually cure insomnia, but the prolonged use of sleeping medications will only result in a dependency. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In 2002, a study reported lower survival rates in people taking sleeping aids.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Those who experience sleep problems always seem to want a quick fix. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Most of the treatments that are successful require a lot of time and attention on the part of the insomniac. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">But the reality behind the use of sleeping aids is that they really don\u2019t solve the problem. They often make it worse in the long run.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The drugs used to improve sleep patterns are called hypnotics. The most common ones that doctors prescribe are called benzodiazepines.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">They were developed initially to treat anxiety. But be warned, side effects are to be expected. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">They can increase depression, have a very high rate of daytime drowsiness, and have an increased risk for automobile accidents and falls in the elderly. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Memory loss, sleepwalking, and other odd mood states have been reported after taking Halcyon and other short-acting benzodiazepines. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Pregnant women or nursing mothers should definitely not use them as birth defects can result.\u00a0 In some cases, overdoses have resulted in death.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Because this medication can be highly addictive, when you stop taking it, you will have some withdrawal symptoms.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">This can include a disturbed heart rhythm, sweating and gastrointestinal distress. Hallucinations or seizures are not unknown. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Although all side effects are not covered here, they are an important factor to reckon with in your decision as to whether you should use them or not.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Of course there are many over-the-counter preparations available to help in your transient insomnia, but most of these sleep aids use antihistamines. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The products referred to here would be such as Nytol, Sleep-Eez, or Sominex. Pain relievers such as Exedrin P.M or Tylenol P.M. also contain antihistamines.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Most of these can leave you drowsy the next day. They aren\u2019t usually very effective in providing restful sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">And of course, there are the side effects that can include dizziness, blurred vision, and daytime sleepiness, which can lead to other problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"> In truth, over-the-counter sleep medications are not a good idea.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Some medications on the market do not contain benzodiazepines and are shorter acting. Examples are Ambien and Sonata. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">However, there will be some side effects that can occur even with these.\u00a0 Watch for nausea, dizziness, agitation and headache. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Rare fatal overdoses have been reported. Always read the warning labels.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Chloral hydrate has reportedly been a reliable medication but it does have significant adverse effects. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Many experts believe it should not be used at all in the treatment of insomnia. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It poses a risk for addiction, and side effects include irritation of the skin and mucous membranes. It has carcinogenic properties and can harm genetic material.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">So having covered the dangers in the \u201cquick-fix\u201d, let\u2019s look at some natural ways to help you sleep.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Natural Cures for Insomnia<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Many people use natural remedies for treating their insomnia. There are many which are completely harmless for most people, such as chamomile tea or lemon balm. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Studies report positive benefits from herbal remedies and as long as you choose the high-quality products on the market today, you are safe. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It needs to be noted that sometimes the products you want are not really what is being marketed to the public regarding that product. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Some so-called natural remedies were discovered to contain standard prescription medication.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Because natural remedies are not regulated, their quality is not fully controlled. You just have to be cautious in what you are buying. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Just because something is labeled \u201cnatural,\u201d it doesn\u2019t necessarily mean it\u2019s 100% so.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Herbal remedies have been used for years in treating all sorts of ailments, including sleep problems. <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Many s<\/strong>tudies suggest valerian is helpful for insomnia. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There can be side effects of vivid dreams, and you don\u2019t want to take high doses as you could experience blurred vision, some excitability as well as changes in heart rhythm. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Studies conducted on the safety of this herb have been inconclusive, as many conditions were not regulated at the time, so no definite proof was forthcoming.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Chamomile, St. John\u2019s Wort and passionflower<\/strong> have been used for insomnia for many years. Also <strong>lemon balm has proven effective. <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Studies have shown that kava kava has <\/strong>helped to improve stress-induced insomnia. Sometimes is dizziness has been a side effect reported from use of this herb. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Also to be noted is that in some cases, kava kava has been associated with liver failure. It interacts dangerously with certain medications like anti-anxiety drugs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">L-tryptophan is an amino acid and is released when milk is heated. Perhaps this is where the remedy of drinking warm milk originates. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It is shown to promote well-being and healthy sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Another remedy is Melatonin, a well-studied natural remedy for insomnia, currently classed as a dietary supplement. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Some studies found that although you may fall asleep faster with this remedy, it may no effect on total sleep time or the daytime feeling of sleepiness. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It has been studied and found that melatonin may help prevent jet lag.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">To be noted here, it is suggested that 0.3 mg could be the most effective dosage for people with insomnia and that higher doses (3 to 5 mg) may make some stay awake. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">High doses also have been linked to drowsiness, headaches and nightmares.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There is a warning that should be made here for people trying to cure insomnia:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In trying Chinese Herbal Remedies, it should be taken into consideration that up to 30% of herbal patent remedies imported from China have been found laced with potent pharmaceuticals. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">One study said there were a significant percentage of such remedies that contained toxic metals. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Many natural remedies assist greatly in helping you beat insomnia. But there are also some other great therapies that you can use to help you get the sleep you need.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sleep Hygiene<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">What is sleep hygiene? It is having good sleep habits, following conditions that promote sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Things that would not be good sleep hygiene would be habits like drinking alcohol or coffee in the evening. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">These are the things that make it difficult for you to get to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">This remedy should actually be your first line of attack. Handling insomnia in this way has proven to be effective in changing sleep patterns. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">By reviewing and making some changes in your routine, you can improve your sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">These are some effective sleep hygiene habits:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Put yourself on a schedule with a regular time for going to bed and getting up and stick to it even on weekends.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Don\u2019t spend excessive time in bed; use the bed for sleep and sexual relations only.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Avoid naps.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Exercise before dinner. You\u2019ll find sleep then comes more easily. Don\u2019t exercise close to bedtime.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">About an hour and a half or two hours before your bedtime, take a hot bath.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Keep the bedroom relatively cool and well ventilated.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Eat light meals before bedtime.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Avoid fluids just before bedtime.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Avoid caffeine or other stimulants 4-6 hours before sleep.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Don\u2019t drink alcohol before going to bed.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">If you can&#8217;t sleep &#8212; don&#8217;t stay in bed. Get out of bed, do some quiet light activity in dim light then return to your bed when you feel tired.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sleep hygiene is an effective technique you can benefit from in your fight against insomnia. <\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Stress Management and Relaxation<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You can manage stress and learn to relax by following some simple exercises.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Practicing these exercises will help you fall asleep more quickly. You can also use them when you wake up in the middle of the night.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Start winding down about an hour before bed by trying these methods of relaxation:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Read a book<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Take a bath<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Play solitaire<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Do a crossword puzzle.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Then there are more detailed exercises you can do, like <strong>Progressive Muscle Relaxation which is <\/strong>a set of exercises to reduce anxiety and stress. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">PMR is a two-step process. It takes a little time to learn, but try it. You will get a quick course on it in the next chapter.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Another exercise helps you learn to breathe slowly and deeply. It is called <strong>Diaphragmatic breathing and it\u2019s <\/strong>a good way to slow down. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">To give this a go, simply put your hand on your stomach, take slow breaths. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Let your stomach expand as you breathe in and relax your chest and shoulders as you breathe out. As you do this, keep your mind away from stressful thoughts. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Here\u2019s another. Practicing visual imagery is the practice of choosing peaceful, soothing thoughts to focus on. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Doing this calms you and lets you stop thinking of all the things you have pending in your life. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You can think of things that make you happy and relaxed, such as taking a walk in the forest, boating on a lake, talking with someone you love. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">As long as the image doesn\u2019t excite your mind, you will find yourself relaxing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Managing stress can be something you teach yourself to do. If you can, you should come up with solutions to the problems you face. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">If you can\u2019t go out and handle them right now, you can at least write down the things you will do in the future.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When there are situations that you know you can\u2019t possibly change, you can resolve to accept that things are how they are. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Allow time to do the things you need to accomplish. This includes meals.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Try to live in the present and not spend time worrying about the past or the future. Talk to your partner if you are experiencing problems in your relationship. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Don\u2019t get into any arguments, however.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">If you find you are angry much of the time, you can deal with it so it doesn\u2019t keep you up at night. If the thing that is making you angry is solvable, take steps to do so. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">If not, realize you can\u2019t change it and move on. Talking about it or writing it down in a journal sometimes helps.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">An important factor in managing stress is to give yourself a break. Take some quiet time every day. Do your relaxation exercises regularly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The good thing about these self-help strategies is that they aren\u2019t addictive and <\/span><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">are usually effective. They are also less expensive!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Don\u2019t forget, changing your physical sleep environment can help too. Try placing a board under your mattress if it sags. Put your bed in a different position. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Put up thicker curtains. <\/span><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Avoid being kept awake by noise. Use earplugs. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Try and change your attitude towards the noise, as sometimes it is not the level of noise that bothers you, but the way you feel about it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Another way to work on alleviating your insomnia is to look into cognitive behavioral therapy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Cognitive Behavior Therapy<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When we deal with sleep difficulties, it becomes important how we think about sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">That is why part of your treatment should involve identifying your thoughts about sleep. It is good to replace these thoughts with positive thinking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the idea is to reduce a person&#8217;s misconceptions about sleep and teach more positive sleep behaviors, including good sleep hygiene.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sometimes sleep problems start as some isolated incident but then become chronic. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">One technique for examining your thinking is to consider alternative beliefs to those you have adopted in the past.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You can determine which beliefs are best supported by actual information available to you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">An example of an issue you might address would be the feeling that it is extremely important that you get a good night\u2019s sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">If you feel that a poor night&#8217;s sleep will be a disaster, it is only going to generate more worry and anxiety, making sleeping that much more difficult. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You can challenge this thinking and simply consider other considerations that will reduce the all-encompassing importance of sleeping. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Think that &#8220;It&#8217;s no big deal&#8221; or &#8220;I&#8217;ll be a little tired and cranky tomorrow but that won\u2019t be anything I can&#8217;t handle.&#8221;).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When you try to force yourself to sleep, you are only putting pressure on yourself and this just will make your sleep worse. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Just focus on what you can control, like your schedule and sleep hygiene, and you will be able to fall asleep and stay asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Doing this practice of challenging these old thoughts and replacing them with new thoughts may take some practice, but in so doing, you will get the old thoughts away from how they seem typically automatic and change your patterns.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Chapter 3<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 14pt; color: #800000;\">Progressive Muscle Relaxation<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Progressive Muscle Relaxation is one of the simplest techniques for relaxation.\u00a0 It teaches you to relax your muscles with an easy two-step process. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When you realize that physical relaxation brings mental calmness, you will understand why this works.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">First you should consult with your physician for if you have a history of serious injuries, back problems or other muscular problems, doing these exercises can exacerbate pre-existing conditions. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">If you do these procedures against your doctor\u2019s advice, you do so at your own risk.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The two steps in this self-administered procedure are deliberately tensing muscle groups, then releasing the induced tension. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Once you learn the procedure, you should spend 10 minutes a day practicing a shortened form of the routine to say in practice. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">For the first week, it is recommended that you practice the full routine twice a day before moving on to the shortened form.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When you practice, it\u2019s wise to follow these suggestions:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Practice in a quiet place with no distractions, not even background music.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Wear loose clothing<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Remove your shoes<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Don\u2019t drink, eat or smoke right before practice<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Never practice this while under the influence of alcohol<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sit in a comfortable chair or lying down in bed<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Get up slowly so you don\u2019t experience a drop in blood pressure and thus feel faint.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You will be working with virtually all the major muscle groups in your body. You should start from your feet and work upwards. Here is the sequence recommended:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Right foot<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Right lower leg and foot<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Entire right leg<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Left foot<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Left lower leg and foot<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Entire left leg<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Right hand<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Right forearm and hand<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Entire right arm<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Left hand<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Left forearm and hand<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Entire left arm<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Abdomen<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Chest<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Neck and shoulders<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Face<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Begin with your left side if you are left handed<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Here is the procedure:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Step One: Tension<\/strong><em>.<\/em> Focus your mind on the muscle group; for example, your right hand. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Then inhale and simply squeeze the muscles as hard as you can for about 8 seconds. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">For example, if you are working with your right hand, this would involve making a tight fist with your hand.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It may seem difficult to learn to take responsibility for your body\u2019s mechanics, and beginners have a hard time allowing muscles in the intended group to tense. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">But you will become better with practice. For now, do the best you can. This is all part of the overall PMR learning process. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You will become skilled at recognizing the fine muscles as distinct from the rest.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">It\u2019s important to really feel the tension. Sometimes the procedure will cause the muscles to start to shake, and you will feel some pain.\u00a0 Don\u2019t hurt yourself. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Always contract the muscles in your feet and your back carefully; i.e., gently but deliberately.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Step Two: Releasing the Tension.<\/strong> This is fun because it is so pleasurable. After the 8 seconds, just quickly and suddenly let go. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Let all the tightness and pain flow out of the muscles while you simultaneously exhale.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You will be imagining tightness and pain flowing out of your hand through your fingertips as you exhale. Concentrate to feel the muscles relax. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Feel them become loose and limp. Be sure to notice the difference between tension and relaxation. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You are focusing on learning to make very subtle distinctions between muscular tension and muscular relaxation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Stay relaxed for about 15 seconds. Then you will repeat the tension-relaxation cycle.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Once you have the above down, and you have more of an understanding of the muscle groups and the procedure, you are ready to begin the full PMR training.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Follow the list of muscle groups in the sequence below. Work through your entire body. Practice twice a day for a week.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Once you achieve a deep sense of physical relaxation; then you can move on to the Shortened PMR schedule.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In the shortened version, you\u2019ll be working with summary groups of muscles rather than individual muscle groups, and begin to use cue-controlled relaxation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There are four summary muscle groups and these are the lower limbs; the abdomen and chest; the arms, shoulders and neck; and the face. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You will focus here on the complete group.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Cue-controlled relaxation:.<\/strong> In this procedure, you will use the same tension-relaxation procedure as in the full PMR, but you will work with the summary groups of muscles. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You will also put more focus on your breathing during both tension and relaxation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Inhale slowly as you apply and hold the tension. Then, when you let the tension go and exhale, say a cue word to yourself. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Some suggestions for cue words\/phrases include: \u201cRelax,\u201d \u201cLet it go,\u201d \u201cIt\u2019s okay,\u201d etc.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">After you have practiced for about a week and twice daily, you will have enough proficiency to practice it under other conditions and with distractions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You can then move on to the final process of Deep Muscle Relaxation. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In this process, you use your imagination, starting at the top of your head and then working down through your body, and think of and then relax the various muscle groups using your cue word(s).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There are other approaches toward combating insomnia that can work well too.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong><em>\u00a0<\/em><span style=\"color: #800000;\">Other Alternatives<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">There are three other techniques that can help you improve your sleep habits. These are the following:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Stimulus control therapy comes from the idea that a person with chronic insomnia starts to associate bedtime and the bedroom with not being able to sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The whole idea of stimulus control comes into play by only using the bedroom for sleeping, nothing else. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">If you are awake, you leave the bedroom and go somewhere else. You will limit the time spent in the bedroom for any non-sleep activities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Another approach is Paradoxical intention. Using this approach, you do the opposite of what you want or fear and take it to the extreme. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Rather than trying unsuccessfully to go to sleep night after night, try to stay awake and do something instead. This is confronting the fear and hopefully, eliminating it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sleep restriction is based on the idea that people require different amounts of sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Someone with insomnia often stays in bed thinking that they will get more sleep, but this really is just increasing frustration and making sleep more difficult. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">In Sleep restriction therapy the amount of non-sleeping time a person spends in bed is reduced. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The insomniac determines his average total sleep time for two weeks, then only spends the time he has spent sleeping on the average in bed each night. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">No TV for two hours before falling asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Now, let\u2019s see how light affects the body\u2019s rhythm and how it can be used to help insomnia.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Light for Healing<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Light therapy is a treatment used for people who suffer from certain sleep disorders called circadian rhythm disorders. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The word \u201ccircadian\u201d means to occur in a cycle of about 24 hours.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">This particular rhythm has to do with the function of darkness and light rather than the actual time of day. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Circadian rhythms affect how you feel sleepy or alert at regular times every day. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">This, in conjunction with your internal clock, tells you when it\u2019s time to be asleep and when it\u2019s time to be awake.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">People with a circadian rhythm sleep disorder have their natural sleep time overlap their regular awake activities. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Your clock is \u201cset\u201d by your exposure to bright light such as sunlight. There are other factors as well, but this is the concept that Light therapy is based upon.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The goal is to combine a healthy sleep pattern with an internal clock that is set at the right time. Then good sleep can occur. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Light therapy can \u201cre-set\u201d a clock that is not operating correctly. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The procedure is very simple and safe, but a person should check with their doctor before embarking upon this therapy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The person receives this therapy by sitting a few feet away from a box-like device that emits bright fluorescent light. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">He sits in front of the light, at a specified distance, for approximately 30-60 minutes after waking in the morning.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Timing of this therapy really depends on the type of insomnia of the individual. An example would be people who can\u2019t sleep at night when they go to bed. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Light therapy in the morning and restricting bright light at night may be helpful.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Bright light therapy can be done at home with the use of a light box. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">The light box emits a standard dosage of white light but should always be used within the proper limits for light intensity and duration of exposure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Bright light therapy has not been known to show any major side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Now we would like to review general tips to practice that can help with your insomnia.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Pre-Sleep and When You Are Awake<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>There are certain suggestions that if you follow them, will help you get a good night\u2019s sleep:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Keep a regular schedule<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Start having bedtime rituals, such as l<\/strong>istening to soft music, etc.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Relax before going to bed<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Don\u2019t eat a large meal before bed<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Have a bedtime snacks <\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Write down your concerns and worries, or make a list of things you need to do the next day or in the near future<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>When you are sleepy, go to sleep<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Avoid &#8220;over-the-counter&#8221; sleeping aids<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Eat some turkey because, like milk, it contains the am<\/strong>ino acid tryptophan<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong>Don&#8217;t do anything stimulating.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Insomnia isn\u2019t an unusual problem, and everyone experiences it at one time or another. But when it comes regularly or exists chronically, something must be done. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Since a variety of health problems can accompany the condition, it is important to address it effectively.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Fortunately, there are many effective treatments for insomnia. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">With recent research showing that self-management techniques for controlling insomnia can work better than using medications, this book has listed many that an individual can take to manage their insomnia problem.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">When you crawl into bed and you can&#8217;t to sleep, you become frustrated and toss and turn. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">And feel worse in the morning and know you have to do something to fix this dilemma.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Sleeping is one of our most basic and natural functions so we need to pay close attention and work at identifying the reasons why we are unable to sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Once we do that, taking some steps toward self-healing is well within your power.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">Try the self-help techniques outlined in this report. If you have insomnia, all hope is not lost.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\">You can overcome it with a little work, then afterwards you can enjoy sleeping through the night and waking feeling rested and refreshed.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction It should be a very simple thing to go to sleep. How complex should something be that is an innate ability? It shouldn\u2019t take much effort at all.\u00a0 It\u2019s an inborn ability, along with other certain bodily functions.\u00a0 When we\u2019re newborns, we can eat, sleep and wet the bed.\u00a0 Our automatic functions continue throughout [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1680,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[216,117],"tags":[217],"class_list":["post-1676","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-sleep","category-stress","tag-how-to-deal-with-insomnia"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1676","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1676"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1676\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1679,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1676\/revisions\/1679"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1680"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1676"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1676"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/AntiAging\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1676"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}