Talk is cheap. What does it actually equal?
How much of your time do you spend discussing things that have absolutely no
meaning, or occurrences which you have no control over?
(Scott Shaw)
Constructive rest
We teach students how to perform constructive rest.
This exercise enables the body to relax
completely
and comfortably, and begin to replenish itself.
If you cannot sleep,
perform
constructive rest for half an hour, and then go to bed.
Bed
Ideally, sleep on the floor - on a foam bedroll used for camping.
This will not appeal to many people, so consider your choice of bed
carefully.
If your bed is saggy, this will not aid sleep. Buy a new one. Not too hard.
Not too soft.
Temperature
Extremes of temperature are not good for sleep.
Do remember that your body temperature must cool in order for you to
sleep soundly.
Central heating or an electric blanket can make you too hot.
Distraction
Remember that it is normal and healthy to wake up when
distracted;
it is a survival mechanism.
Yet, if everyday sounds are waking you up, this is not good.
Street noises, neighbour noises and household noises will not help you to
sleep.
If there is a street lamp outside your window, choose your curtains or
blinds with this in mind.
Take all possible
measures to reduce the likelihood of
interrupted sleep.
Electric
Electrical items make a humming noise all the time, and they also vibrate.
You may not consciously notice it, but your body does.
Remove all unnecessary electrical items from your sleeping room, especially
the television.
If you cannot remove them, switch them off at the mains.
Use your bedroom for sleep.
Sex
An irregular sex life can really spoil your sleep - chemicals build up in
the body and you become restless and agitated.
Neglecting this aspect of your life has a price.
Commit the time and you will have much better sleep.
Pattern
Establish a pattern of sleep.
Go to bed at the same time and get up at the same time; even on weekends.
Do not be tempted to fall asleep again in the morning.
This will just ruin your night time sleep and may be an indication of
depression.
Page created 29 April 2005