Effective Strategies to Calm the Mind and Improve Sleep Quality
Struggling to fall asleep because your mind is racing? Relaxing at night can be a challenge, but there are practical steps you can take to help your brain wind down and get better sleep. Let’s dive into the specifics for each method.
1. Set a Sleep Schedule
Steps:
- Pick consistent times: Choose a bedtime and wake-up time that you can stick to daily, even on weekends.
- Gradually adjust: If your current schedule is off, shift your bedtime or wake-up time by 15–30 minutes each day until you reach your goal.
- Wake up at the same time every day: Even if you had a rough night, getting up at the same time helps set your internal clock.
- Avoid long naps: Keep naps under 30 minutes and avoid them after 3 PM to avoid disrupting your nighttime sleep.
2. Unwind with Relaxation Techniques
Steps:
- Deep Breathing:
- Sit or lie in a comfortable position.
- Breathe in slowly through your nose for 4 seconds.
- Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
- Exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds.
- Repeat this cycle 5–10 times, focusing on the sensation of your breath.
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation:
- Lie down in bed or sit in a quiet space.
- Start with your feet. Tighten the muscles for 5 seconds, then relax them.
- Move up to your calves, thighs, stomach, arms, shoulders, and neck, tightening and releasing each muscle group.
- Focus on the feeling of relaxation spreading through your body.
3. Cut Back on Screen Time Before Bed
Steps:
- Set a timer: Use your phone to remind yourself to stop screen time 30–60 minutes before bed.
- Create an alternative activity: Replace screen time with reading, journaling, or listening to a podcast.
- Use night mode: If you need to use your phone, turn on night mode to reduce blue light.
- Charge your phone outside your bedroom: If possible, leave your phone in another room to avoid late-night scrolling.
4. Build a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Steps:
- Set a schedule: Pick 2–3 calming activities to do in the same order every night.
- Example: Take a shower, read for 15 minutes, and listen to soothing music.
- Limit stimulating activities: Avoid anything that gets your heart racing, like intense exercise or watching suspenseful shows.
- Try journaling:
- Write down three things you’re grateful for.
- Make a to-do list for tomorrow to clear your mind.
- Experiment with aromatherapy: Use lavender-scented candles or essential oils to create a calming atmosphere.
5. Make Your Room a Sleep Sanctuary
Steps:
- Control the temperature: Keep your room cool, ideally between 60–67°F (15–19°C).
- Block light: Use blackout curtains or wear an eye mask.
- Minimize noise: Use earplugs or a white noise machine if your environment is noisy.
- Declutter your space: A tidy room can help your mind feel more at ease.
- Invest in quality bedding: Choose a comfortable mattress, pillows, and breathable sheets.
6. Avoid Late-Night Caffeine and Heavy Meals
Steps:
- Limit caffeine: Avoid coffee, energy drinks, or soda after 2 PM.
- Eat light in the evening: Have a lighter dinner and avoid fatty or spicy foods close to bedtime.
- Try sleep-friendly snacks:
- A banana with peanut butter.
- A small bowl of oatmeal.
- A glass of warm milk.
- Stay hydrated: Drink enough water during the day but limit fluids an hour before bed to avoid waking up at night.
7. Write Down Your Worries
Steps:
- Grab a notebook: Keep a journal or notebook near your bed.
- Dump your thoughts: Write down anything that’s bothering you or what you need to do tomorrow.
- Example: “I’m stressed about the presentation tomorrow. I’ll review my notes at lunch.”
- Focus on positives: End with 1–3 things you’re grateful for, like a supportive friend or a good meal.
- Leave it behind: Once it’s on paper, tell yourself it’s out of your head until tomorrow.
8. Try Guided Meditation or Sleep Apps
Steps:
- Download an app: Popular options include Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer.
- Choose a bedtime program: Look for meditations, sleep stories, or white noise.
- Use headphones if needed: If others in your house are noisy, headphones can help you focus.
- Stick with it: Meditation can take practice. Start with 5–10 minutes and increase as you get more comfortable.
Final Thoughts
These methods aren’t one-size-fits-all. Try out different strategies and stick with the ones that work for you. Creating a calming nighttime routine and a sleep-friendly environment can make a huge difference. Over time, these steps will train your brain to wind down more easily, helping you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling refreshed. Sleep is essential—make it a priority!
This article has been written by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW. Mr. Collier has over 25 years of experience in the social work field. He currently serves as the Executive Director and Outpatient Behavioral Health Therapist through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health in London Kentucky. John may be reached at (606) 657-0532 extension 101 or by email at john@sekybh.com.
References
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- Dickinson, D. L., & Drummond, S. P. (2018). The effect of gratitude journaling on sleep quality: A randomized controlled trial. Behavioral Sleep Medicine, 16(3), 199-207.
- Gaines, J., Vgontzas, A. N., Fernandez-Mendoza, J., et al. (2017). Consistency of sleep patterns and chronic insomnia. Sleep Medicine, 37, 29-36.
- Heath, M., Sutherland, C., Bartel, K., et al. (2020). The role of blue light in affecting sleep. Nature and Science of Sleep, 12, 123-133.
- Rusch, H. L., Rosario, M., Levison, L. M., et al. (2018). The effect of mindfulness meditation on pre-sleep arousal and insomnia. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 74(7), 1207-1215.
- Trauer, J. M., Qian, M. Y., Doyle, J. S., et al. (2015). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 172(8), 721-735.
- Wheatley, C. M., & Smith, R. P. (2019). Pre-sleep routines and their impact on sleep outcomes. Journal of Sleep Research, 28(5), e12756.
- National Sleep Foundation. (2021). Healthy sleep environment tips. Retrieved from sleepfoundation.org.
By implementing these methods, you can foster a sleep-conducive lifestyle and enjoy more restful nights.