Dear Friend,
Whether it's anxiety about work, finances, relationships, or business, we can both agree that stress plays a huge role in affecting the quality of our lives.
I want to share personal experiences and strategies that help me sleep better.
For years, sleep has been a hard nut to crack. Some nights, I'd lie in bed replaying conversations, worrying about work and school, bothered about deadlines, or fretting over financial decisions. These thoughts would spiral out of control, making it impossible for me to relax. When my anxiety kicks in, it is like a storm brewing in my mind, keeping me awake for hours on end.
On the nights I managed to fall asleep, I'd often wake up in the middle of the night and reach for my phone, mindlessly scrolling through social media. This habit only made things worse, as the blue light from my screen disrupted my sleep cycle.
The result of such behaviour was a downward spiral. I'd wake up exhausted, irritable, and grumpy. No wonder my productivity was low, relationships were struggling, my body was aching, and brain fog was a constant companion.
The more I struggled, the more I realized how intertwined my thoughts, emotions, and actions were. No wonder you're reading this letter.
Things that have helped me:
Deep breathing: I've learned to incorporate deep breathing exercises into my bedtime routine. This helps calm my mind and relax my body.
Reducing screen time: I've made a conscious effort to limit my screen exposure before bed. I try to avoid using my phone or computer for at least an hour before sleep.
Eating dinner on my time: I've found that eating a light, early dinner helps regulate my digestion and prevents late-night snacking.
Stretching before bedtime: Gentle stretching can help release tension in my muscles and promote relaxation.
Taking Melatonin tablets: In some cases, taking melatonin supplements has been helpful in improving my sleep quality. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements.
I hope you find the strength to let go of the urge to control things. I really hope you find peace in the chaos. As you sleep better at night, share these tips with a loved one.
Love and Light 💚
Khadijah