How to sleep when not tired?
Even after a long day, there are times when I'm not physically tired, but I know I need to sleep to function tomorrow. My mind is wide awake. What are some techniques to help me sleep when I'm not tired?
Even after a long day, there are times when I'm not physically tired, but I know I need to sleep to function tomorrow. My mind is wide awake. What are some techniques to help me sleep when I'm not tired?
Honestly, I used to panic so much when I wasn't tired but needed to sleep, thinking something was wrong. But then I realized it's okay, sometimes your body just isn't ready. Just focus on relaxing, not sleeping. Deep breathing really helps me.
Try warm milk with a pinch of nutmeg before bed, it's a natural relaxant. Also, make sure your room is completely dark and quiet. If this 'not tired' feeling is happening very often and affecting your day, then it's always best to check with a doctor, just to be sure.
Switch off all electronics at least an hour before. Read a physical book, not on a tablet. Sometimes a quick walk in the evening helps tire you out just enough without being too much. Don't drink caffeine after afternoon, that's a big one for me.
What you eat also plays a big role. Avoid heavy, oily food at dinner. I stick to light vegetarian meals. And definitely no coffee or strong tea in the evening. A small banana or some almonds can sometimes help with sleep too, due to magnesium.
For busy professionals, consistent wind-down routine is crucial. Mine includes 15 mins of light stretching and then journaling. No work emails after 8 PM. It’s about signaling to your brain it’s time to switch off, even if you don't feel physically tired.
You had a full night's sleep. You didn't skip dinner. You even sat down and rested for most of the aftern...
Stop nighttime coughing naturally by elevating your head, using a humidifier, sipping warm tea or honey, ...
Peppermint is more than its refreshing aroma, learn how peppermint tea supports digestion, eases stress, ...
Ashwagandha is an ayurvedic medicine used for better sleep and anxiety. But are the benefits limited to o...
My son sometimes has this problem, he'll be energetic even late night. We dim the lights in the house, play soft music, and read him a story. It's less about making him tired and more about calming his mind. Maybe you can try something similar for yourself?
Get the Zerunio health brief
Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.
Enter your phone number – we’ll text you a one-time code.