Looking Toward the New Year!

11. Bedtime

Happy New Year!!! As we look at the new year we need to focus on a few things if we really want to heal this next year. Get ready to leave the panic and anxiety behind!
Don't get overwhelmed - Don't work on everything at once these are only things to keep in the back of your mind! One Step at a Time.

How is your bedtime habit?
Think about the hour before you go to bed. Are you racing around, trying to finish everything? Already stressing about tomorrow? Or do you have a ritual of calming events to get you ready for a peaceful night's sleep?

I tended to have panic attacks right around bedtime. For years this was a dreaded time for me. I tried everything to change the way I felt in my bedroom. Painted, moved furniture, decluttered. I was sure one day something would "click" and I would feel better.

Finally I developed my bedtime ritual. I still do this the same way every night. Remember no panic or anxiety - I don't want to chance it.

My ritual consists of:

No caffeine & sugar 3-4 hours before bed.

Make sure I am prepared for tomorrow, keeps me from stressing as I go to sleep.

Check all of the doors (peace of mind).

Take a long warm shower/bath and use lavender lotion (If I don't shower before bed I don't seem to have that relaxation feel).

Get a glass of water (If I feel anxious, lots of water seems to help me).

Make sure my room is straight and clutter free (reduces visual anxiety).

I saved my money and bought cozy sheets and fluffy pillows (makes me feel happy & cozy).

I sleep with a body pillow - keeps my chest from caving in when I sleep on my side. I am able to practice my breathing as I fall asleep. It is also soft and fuzzy & helps with touch if I need to change my focus.

Watch a funny show on TV. (most of the time I fall asleep with the TV on captions - it helps keep my mind busy reading the captions as I fall asleep. Too busy for the What Ifs to enter).

If anxious feeling come, I use some more lotion to help with aromatherapy & it calms me down.

All of this tells my mind it's time to shut down. If I know I am feeling anxious I take L-5HTP before bed. Do not take it if on medication for anxiety & depression. Check with your doctor - it is a Seretonin booster.

Work with your bedtime routine and find what works to calm you down. Doesn't have to cost a penny, but could have priceless effects. Let us know what you find works for you!

Want to feel better? Commit to sleeping. Download the Daily Healing Journal in the Egg Printables to help you keep you on track.

Wishing you peaceful thoughts today,
Amy

Quote of the Day

"The worst thing in the world is to try to sleep and not to."
F. Scott Fitzgerald