I have a problem, and it’s a new-to-me problem. Ever since October, I’ve been having issues sleeping. I fall asleep just fine - I usually read before bed or use my Calm app but since October, I’ve been waking up in the middle of the night and cannot fall back asleep. I’ve even given up and read entire books because that’s better than tossing and turning and stressing about not falling back asleep.

After one too many sleepless nights, I turned to my Instafam for help, and here were the top recommendations (in order of most times mentioned to least)

Magnesium supplements/ calm supplement: This was by far the most recommended solution from friends who suffer from insomnia and/or sleeplessness.
CBD (some specifically recommended the ones with THC): I’ve been taking a stress-relief supplement with CBD for several months now, and while it does help during the day (election week was an exception) it does not appear to have made any significant changes to my sleep.
Apps: Besides the calm app which is my personal favorite, several other recommendations included Headspace, Insight Timer, Hatch app, and the Fitbit app.
Weighted blanket: This came up a few times too - we have one, but I can’t sleep under it. I get way too hot and it would 100% wake me up in the middle of the night
Quitting red wine at night, putting down devices, spraying lavender on your pillow case, and limiting caffeine were all mentioned.

Since receiving these recommendations, I’ve implemented a few lifestyle changes which are showing some success. For one, I’ve resumed regular workouts, particularly yoga, and I’ve started limiting my caffeine to no more than 16oz, and before 10 am. I don’t drink any caffeine after 10 am, and I’m cautiously optimistic that things have turned a corner. I’m having more rested sleep, and when I do wake up in the middle of the night, I’m doing better at falling back asleep relatively quickly.

Fingers crossed for better sleep with fun dreams!!