Seven Steps to Better Sleep
Sleep is a paradox. The more you try to fall asleep, the harder it is to rest. The steps below help stabilize the biological forces that drive sleep. They also improve mood, and you can learn more about them in The Depression and Bipolar Workbook (PESI, 2020)
Brisk Awakening
Sleep is a 24-hours cycle, and it’s easier intervene in the morning than it is at night. Rising out of bed at the same time each day will set your body’s internal clock. Start your day with energizing activity to further sharpen those gears. Trouble waking up? Try the next step for help with that.
Brisk Walking
It’s too mild to call it exercise, but it’s strong enough to deepen sleep. Slower than a jog, but faster than a walk, brisk walking for 30-45 minutes in the afternoon will improve your sleep quality. Stuck indoors? Try Happy Walk or Walk at Home videos.
Evening wind-down
You can’t hurry sleep. Your brain needs to shift into the alpha waves of more meditative thought before dozing off. A restful routine in the half-hour before bed can get you there. Examples include meditative music, aromatherapy (try lavender or rosemary), dim lights, and a warm bath.
Blue-light Blockers
Wearing these amber glasses 1-2 hours before bed activates the sleep chemicals like melatonin. They won’t make you fall asleep, but they will improve the quality of your sleep so you’ll feel better and think sharper the next day. If you’re a night owl, they’ll help you get back into a stable rhythm.
CBT for Insomnia