Medicine, gadgets, or birdsong – there are many solutions to sleep problems

The bracelet on my wrist beeps to indicate that now is the optimal time to go to sleep. I’m going to check that there’s still battery left on the recovery-measuring ring and put the weighted blanket aside. Automatic light therapy lamps begin to dim the lighting while the air purifier and thermostat adjust the air in the bedroom to the ideal. My smart mattress takes shape according to my body and the way I sleep, and the pillow headphones play relaxing rainforest sounds. During the night, the smart collar measures my brain function,  my mattress measures body temperature and movements, and my smart pillow corrects the position of my head, if necessary.

Or maybe I keep my circadian rhythm steady and always wake up at the same time. I work and meet people and my days are suitably active. I leave work-related things at work and I’m merciful to myself. I drink enough water, but I reduce my drinking in the evening. In the evenings I calm down, take a relaxing walk in nature, put my smart devices aside. I eat a carbohydrate-rich supper, I don’t think about work. I go to bed only when I’m tired, but always at the same time.

Or maybe I’ll turn to a professional. I’m taking sleeping pills as instructed. I get an appointment with a sleep nurse with whom we go through my situation and discuss possible needs to see a physiotherapist and psychologist as well. I make an appointment with a doctor and my blood pressure and BMI are measured. The doctor will talk to me about my problem and I’ll get a referral for sleep apnea tests.

Sleep restores the body and nervous system from exertion. It is an important part of the immune system and other regulatory systems of the body. Sleep also has a significant impact on learning and memory. While sleeping, we deal with emotions and contribute to creativity. A good sleep prevents stress. Many entrepreneurs are currently living in a time that can cause a lot of stress; economic pressure and uncertainty about the situation can also make nights uneasy. Getting excited in a positive sense can also interfere with falling asleep. Occasional awake moments are normal, but if the disturbances drag on and start disrupting the day’s activities, it’s time to seek help. There are many solutions to sleeping problems. One relies on technology, the other on lifestyle changes, sometimes turning to health care professionals is appropriate. Hopefully, you will find the right way for you.

Sweet dreams!

Reetta Raitoharju and Katja Heikkinen

The source used and more information can be found at: https://mieli.fi/fi/mielenterveys/hyvinvointi/unen-merkitys