Our bodies need sleep to function at optimal capacity.
In fact, a 2-year study from the National Sleep Foundation has proven that…
- School age children (6-13) need 9-11 hours
- Teenagers (14-17) need 8-10 hours
- Young adults (18-25) need 7-9 hours
- Adults (26-64) need 7-9 hours
- Older adults (65+) need 7-8 hours
…of sleep each night in order to wake up refreshed and ready to take on a new day.
Without this sleep, it becomes increasingly harder to…
- Focus on tasks.
- Complete detailed work.
- Learn new things.
- Remember things.
- And more!
It may seem like common sense that we need to go to bed and get rest every night.
But, what are you supposed to do if you suffer from a sleeping disorder like insomnia?
Today, I’m going to share a little more about what causes insomnia, as well as some natural solutions that may help you get a more restful night’s sleep.
Check it out…
What Causes Insomnia
Insomnia is a tricky issue because there are so many factors (both emotional and physical) that can cause it.
However, when you’re able to take an honest look at your lifestyle, emotional health, and physical health, it may become easy to pinpoint where your insomnia is stemming from.
Here are a few things to look at…
Emotional Health
Do you suffer from anxiety, stress, or depression?
These are some of the most common causes of chronic insomnia.
Even worse, not being able to sleep can also make anxiety, stress, and depression symptoms worse, leading you into a pattern of not sleeping while also suffering from other symptoms due to emotional health problems.
My natural solution to this problem:
First and foremost, I recommend you talk with your doctor.
It’s possible that seeing a counselor or psychiatrist could greatly help you resolve any emotional health issues you’re dealing with.
At the very least, your doctor may be able to prescribe you a medication to help you get over the “hump” and into a better sleeping pattern you so can begin to naturally heal.
Chronic Illness
All sorts of chronic illnesses, such as…
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Hyperthyroidism
- Acid reflux
- Autoimmune diseases
- Chronic pain
…can easily be the root cause of your insomnia.
After all, any pain/discomfort makes it difficult for anyone to sleep.
My natural solution to this problem:
Many, if not all of the chronic illnesses I just mentioned, stem from poor gut health.
In order to get rid of/better manage your chronic health issue, you need to heal yourself from the inside out starting with your gut.
Read my latest article here to discover why this is so important.
Medications
Prescription drugs, such as…
- Antidepressants
- Stimulants
- Corticosteroids thyroid hormones
- High blood pressure meds
- Contraceptives
- Cold and flu medications that contain alcohol
- Pain relievers that contain caffeine
- Diuretics
- Weight loss meds
…can cause restless nights. This is especially true if you take medications like the ones listed above on a daily basis.
My natural solution to this problem:
The only way to naturally fix insomnia due to medications is to simply stop taking them.
Instead, look for natural ways to relieve pain, balance your hormones, lose weight, etc.
Contrary to what most Western medicine tells us, most health issues can be resolved via natural methods.
If you’re not sure how to manage your emotional or physical health issues without your medications, please get in touch with us to see how we can help!
Disclaimer: ALWAYS talk to your doctor first before stopping your medication.
Sleeping Disorders
Sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and circadian rhythm disturbances can also cause issues with insomnia.
These are more complex issues–sometimes even life-threatening.
If you believe you are suffering from anything listed above, see your doctor immediately.
He/she might put you on oxygen overnight or track your heart to ensure you’re breathing properly, getting enough oxygen, and aren’t at risk of suffering a heart attack.
Lifestyle Habits
Our lifestyles greatly impact our sleep habits.
For instance, if you’re addicted to video games and play until 3 a.m. every night or drink 3+ energy drinks a day, it would only make sense that you’re suffering from insomnia.
After all, you’ve trained your body to be wired at night.
My natural solution to this problem:
The only way to get rid of lifestyle-induced insomnia is to break your bad habits.
Here’s what I recommend…
- Stop drinking energy drinks altogether. They are not safe or healthy for you.
- Don’t drink anything that’s caffeinated after lunch. Stop drinking soda altogether.
- Hydrate your body with water.
- Stay off screens in the evening. This includes phones, TVs, and computers.
- Use up your energy outside. Go for a walk, do yard work, or play a sport.
- Set a regular bedtime for yourself and get into a routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
Believe it or not, not getting enough sleep and feeling fatigued are often two totally different problems. Read my post to see if you’re suffering from any of the 3 major causes of fatigue.
