Getting a good night's sleep is essential to your health and overall well-being. If pain is preventing you from getting adequate rest, there are things you can do to enhance your comfort prior to bed. Here are 5 tips for getting a good night's sleep when you suffer from chronic pain.
- Engage in regular exercise. Stretching, strengthening, and cardiovascular activity promote the body's natural healing process, and will make you feel better, both physically and mentally. Try doing a few yoga poses before bed to calm your body and mind.
- Apply Milkweed Balm. Milkweed Balm can be applied topically to sore muscles before you settle in for the night. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients in Milkweed Balm will help soothe your muscles while you sleep.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Stimulants can block sleep-inducing chemicals in the brain, making you alert when you want to sleep. Instead of drinking coffee, wine, or soda, consider drinking an herbal tea or water before bed. Tossing and turning from insomnia will only exacerbate your pain.
- Write in a journal. Sometimes getting your thoughts down on paper can relieve your stress. When you are not as worried, you might find it easier to rest. Keep a notebook and pen by your bed so you can jot down your thoughts when the day is over.
- Assess your bed and pillow for comfort. If you're not getting enough support from your mattress or pillow, you may need to invest in new ones or make adjustments to aid in your comfort. For example, a simple change in pillow support might make a huge difference in neck pain.
Lack of sleep can make your chronic pain worse, which may lead to a vicious cycle of intensifying pain and sleeplessness. Do what you can to prepare yourself for a good sleep before you hit the pillow each night. Consult your doctor if you continue to have difficulty sleeping with your pain.