I understand that may seem a contradiction in terms, but I can assure you that it does make a difference, and I look forward to sharing these insights with you today.
Can I Actually Sleep When I am Stressed and Anxious?
Well, Yes, and no. How’s that for an answer.
I am not trying to be difficult, but rather, need to explain that there are some points I need to make to clarify the point.
In previous posts, I have spoken about sometimes needing to sacrifice around a half hour of sleep time, to turn that into gratitude time, to help you recognise all that is good in your life, and all that you have.
Doing this allows you to centre yourself, such that you know you still have many good things to br thankful for.
However, where does this come in regarding sleep?
Simple.
Many people who suffer from anxiety may find their mind is still very active at night, when they are trying to rest and settle to sleep.
Sometimes, the best few things you can do, is actually tell yourself mentally, that you may not fall asleep immediately, and this is not a tragedy, but rather, a symptom of possible stress.
Now, before you whack me for suggesting something so obvious, recognise that by acknowledging you may not fall asleep immediately, you have just taken a substantial part of the pressure away.
You see, when you are forcing yourself to sleep, you will be applying even more pressure, that is very counter productive. Hence, as this will not work, simply accept that it is the case, and let yourself be.
The Writing Sleep Method
Another method, to cope with this problem is to recognise that as there are so many thoughts going through your mind, you will need to somehow,put them to rest.
I have found that by having a pen and paper near by, I am able to write everything that is on my mind down, even if it is not always very clear.
I call this my mind dump, which again, reassures me, subconsciously, that I have brain dumped all my ideas, and things to do, so I can really relax about it and sleep.
I realise this will probably take some practice, but I assure you that it does work.
In time, you will be sleeping very much better than before.
However, know that it could take a week or so to take hold, and if you are not sleeping your full, alloted time as before, be gentle on yourself, and know it will come right.
To learn more about this, and other anxiety related issues, head over to the anxiety resolution site.
