Not being able to sleep well at night is a really annoying experience. Let it be stress from work, excitement for some future plans, or even curiosity about your current Netflix binge – there can be countless reasons to keep you up at night.
So if you, like many others, suffer from mild insomnia and wonder what to do when you can’t sleep and are bored, then this article is perfect for you.
Here is a list of ten things to do when you can’t sleep:
1. Some light exercise can be good for your body and your sleep routine
It is a scientifically proven fact that a light to moderate intensity workout before bedtime can stimulate your body to sleep quicker. Some light relaxing exercises such as yoga can induce relaxation, lower your anxiety levels, and fix your internal clock.
If you don’t want to do some heavy workout, then even doing some small physical tasks such as organizing your cupboard or sorting laundry can do the magic. A light workout will increase your body temperature so that once you are done with it, your body temperature will drop, and you will undoubtedly feel sleepier.
2. Light reading
Light reading can help you rest your mind. It will work as a stress reliever as reading a book will put your mind off tomorrow’s to-do list that is keeping you anxious. By reading a good book, you are automatically turning the focus of your mind from anything that is acting as a barrier in your peaceful sleep.
There are heaps of cool gadgets available in the market. Get your hands on any of the best reading tablets and start your journey towards a peaceful pre-slumber time.
3. Music
Listening to your favorite music is another top things to do when you can’t sleep. Listening to light music will directly stimulate your parasympathetic nervous system and hence put your body in a resting mode.
4. Eating a light snack
Many people believe that there is a direct link between sleeping and eating. Eating something light and tasty, such as a cup of hot chocolate or some refreshing herbal tea, will undoubtedly soothe your nerves and help you have a relaxing sleep.
5. A refreshing bath
If you are tired and can’t sleep, then you need to try having a deep soak in warm water surrounded by scented candles. Dedicate 15 minutes before bed to relax your mind and body, and see the incredible results.
6. Doing some activity that you enjoy
This can range from solving a puzzle to mending some clothes. Often people spend their whole day running errands and never do something which they truly enjoy. So remember that if you can’t sleep, it might be your body’s way of telling you that it’s not happy with how you are spending all your energies.
7. Write a to-do list
Sometimes when you can’t sleep at night, it’s because you are too anxious about tomorrow. So, plan your day in a journal or a phone app, as it might clear doubts in your head and help you organize your time effectively for the next day.
8. Watch the stars
Sometimes worries can be solved just by enjoying nature. Grab a chair, open your bedroom window, or lay down on the floor with a blanket – and watch the stars till you fall asleep!
9. Talk to someone you like
This can be your spouse, friend, or parents. Chat for a while with someone you love, and you will feel light-hearted.
10. Take out a photo album
Nothing makes a person happier than revisiting old happy memories. So take out your favorite childhood album and let it help you relax!
Your body and mind need a restful sleep to get energized for a full day of chores. When you are looking for things to do at night when you can’t sleep, opt for something that helps your mind and body to relax.
