Do the holidays stress you out? Does it feel as if there are never enough hours in the day to get everything done? Do you struggle to fall asleep because of the endless list of to-dos you keep thinking about? You’re not alone. Getting adequate rest can seem impossible, but there are ways to curb fatigue. Try any of the following three relaxation methods and prepare to enjoy much-needed sleep.
How to Prepare for Bed & Relaxation
Before you attempt any specific methods of relaxation, it’s important to prepare your room for optimal sleep. You can make sure that you are wearing loose, comfortable clothing and have cool bedding in place. Blackout curtains and dim lighting can also create a positive sleep space.
Finally, make sure to remove all screens so that blue light doesn’t try to trick your brain and body into believing it’s time to be awake.
How Can You Relax?
Experts recommend many different ways to relax before bed, but some that are quick and easy include:
- Breathing Exercises: You can try inhaling for 4 seconds, holding it for 7 seconds, and exhaling for 8 seconds. This repeated process may start shorter in the beginning, but over time, you will begin to engage in it longer, effectively calming down your body and getting it ready for sleep.
- Non-Sleep Deep Rest: Used as a way to prepare for sleep, this process involves closing your eyes and thinking about how your muscles are relaxing. As you breathe in and out, you can focus on how your body is becoming fully relaxed and ready for ample rest.
- Mental Visualization: Once in bed, try visualizing your dream home, future wedding day, etc. Think about all the details and what you want it to look like. As you take this vision step by step, you’ll soon discover that you are falling asleep.
There are many other ways to relax before bedtime, such as reading a book, exercising earlier in the day, saying no to alcohol and caffeine, putting away screens (i.e., phones, tablets, TVs, etc.), and setting the temperature in your room to cool. You might also try meditation, prayer, or muscle relaxation.
No matter what you do, remember that the goal is to rest. Your body and brain need time to recover and recharge for the next day. By taking the time to focus on your well-being, you’ll start to notice a significant difference in your daily life.
About the Practice
Want to get better sleep around the holidays? The specialists at Star Sleep & Wellness in Frisco are available to provide helpful insight and techniques to make relaxation possible. Instead of struggling to make it through unscathed, these solutions can revive your brain and body so that you operate without always feeling fatigued. Contact us to schedule a consultation if you are ready for our help.