Every night when I try to go to sleep my mind starts racing about all the things I did during the day, week, month, etc., people I've known for years and years, my elementary school, high school, college years, books I've read, tv shows, I've watched, wondering if I'll die tomorrow until finally I eventually go to sleep. But it takes about 90 minutes. I'm so sick and tired of this!!!
shareBuddha described the human mind as being filled with drunken monkeys, jumping around, screeching, chattering, carrying on endlessly. We all have monkey minds, Buddha said, with dozens of monkeys all clamoring for attention.
Form it into (short story) --- then put it down onto a word processor. This will release it from your mind where you can then approach it.
shareDo you consume much caffeine during the day? If so, only have it in the morning or simply cut it out all together.
Sugar (that includes soda too) or sweets? Keep that to a once weekly treat. Get up early and be active during the day.
That should help you fall asleep easily at night, provided you do not have serious health issues where you are on certain medications that hinder your sleep. If that is the case, consult your doctor..... not strangers on a chat site.
On average, it takes about 90 minutes for a good 5mg melatonin supplement to take hold. I often feel it around 60.
shareThis is why I have to fall asleep with the TV on. I don't watch, but I do listen because it helps distract my mind from racing. I set the sleep timer for an hour or so, but I'm usually asleep before it shuts down. I used to race through all the things I did that day and what I needed to do the next. It really helps me, in spite of what the so-called sleep experts say.
shareThat is what we do too. I turn the sound low so that when the TV shuts off, it isn't going to jar me awake. I usually put a black and white TV show on or an old movie. It isn't so bright. I can doze off most nights in a half hour.
My only problem is that I wake up a couple of times a night to pee. It doesn't matter that I cut out all liquids after 6.
That's another thread though. This is slimone's. One problem at a time.....😊
Meditation. Take it seriously and seek a teacher, if needed.
In my experience, a calm, disciplined approach to consciously and intentionally leading yourself through those same thoughts that would otherwise present themselves to you unbidden when you attempt to sleep can help dramatically. Not only will it take a fraction of that 90-minute period, but it will improve the quality of your sleep once it does finally take hold.
It can be as simple as giving ourselves time to focus on the issues while we are still active during the day. There is wisdom in what you say. People are working longer hours these days for roughly the same amount of pay they would earn in less time in the past. Families are especially active, now with tighter schedules due to after school clubs, sporting practice, or other hobbies in an effort to keep everyone out of trouble. Good point.
shareHow often are we distracted during the day to not think about these things you describe? We find ourselves resting in bed where we nothing for our minds to focus on but wonder? One reason our brains race through thoughts in bed is because we have not contemplated our concerns due to being busy with other tasks. Give yourself a break to have that time. It does not have to be long or mentally deep exercise. It can be as simple as doing meditation, prayer, or Tai Chi to help alleviate stress and anxiety.
share