Are you awakened by the slightest sounds?

Light sleepers are at the mercy of factors both internal and external that serve to prevent them from getting a deep, restful night’s sleep. Sleeping is an individual struggle and light sleepers often feel themselves at the mercy of sounds. While genetics and the possibility for a sleep disorder certainly play a role, there are lifestyle choices that you can exercise control over to help yourself get a better night’s rest.  

Why do you want to sleep deeper?

Here are just a handful of ways that getting a full night’s rest benefits you:

• Immune function
• Energy levels throughout the day
• Sleep helps to balance the onset of anxiety and depression 
• Metabolism is regulated
• Memory is improved

How to start sleeping more soundly in the city of Houston

With all these benefits in mind, here are some ways you can start impacting your sleep in a positive manner today:

• White noise: to help you fall asleep and normalize the excess sounds. 
• Melatonin: a natural chemical produced by the brain, it is also sold over-the-counter in most pharmacies to help effect the onset of sleep. 
• Magnesium and calcium supplements: both have been found effective for the treatment of insomnia. 
• A cool and dark sleeping environment: while you should feel free to get cozy underneath the blankets, keep the ambient temperature cool and as little light as possible. 
• Keep a regular sleep schedule: aiming to get to bed at the same time every night is a boon for the rhythm that your body seeks when trying to sleep. 

And a few things to avoid when trying to sleep deeply…

• Electronics before bed: the blue light of the screen interferes with feeling tired. 
• Limit caffeine: caffeine takes hours to leave the body- if you have your last cup at 4 p.m., caffeine can still be active in your system at midnight. 
• Booze before bed: alcohol may help you pass out, but you will not get restful sleep. And chances are that once your blood alcohol level lowers and the effects wear off, you may just wake up. 

Pain is another limiting factor when it comes to sleep- if you are struggling with long standing pain related to a spinal condition, give our office in Houston a call to schedule an appointment so we can detect the root of your pain and set a course for treatment. It’s time we start getting you the rest you deserve. 

Dr. Randall Holmes, D.C.