Sleeping Tips to Try
It's important for bipolar patients to get eight hours of sleep every night. When you're manic, you're going to want to stay up all night or you might even want to stay up for days on end. That's not healthy for you, and it will only make things worse.
Deep Breathing
If you're laying in bed and you can't fall asleep, the best way to relax your body and mind is by using deep breathing techniques. The next time you feel restless, try this deep breathing exercise:
- First, breathe in for four seconds and breathe out for six seconds.
- Next, breathe in for five seconds and then breathe out for seven seconds.
- Repeat until you feel relaxed and calm.
Listen to Meditation Music
Meditation music produces a calming and relaxing effect on the mind and body. If you're not sure where to look for meditation music, you can find it online for free.
First, find a relaxing area in your home. Next, once you're settled in, listen to the music over a stereo or through your headphones. Lastly, shut your eyes and just relax.
Melatonin
Melatonin is an over-the-counter vitamin supplement that helps with regulating your sleep and awake cycles. Remember, before you start any new vitamins, be sure to check with your doctor.
The Smell of Lavender
Most stores offer sheet sprays and pillow sprays that contain lavender, which is an essential oil that promotes calmness, relaxation, and sleep. You can use lavender-infused body lotion, lavender spray or you can even put lavender essential oils in an aromatherapy diffuser.
Herbal Sleeping Tea
You can easily find an herbal tea that will help with sleep at your grocery store or pharmacy. When searching for these herbal teas, looking for a "sleepy time" or "sleep tea" name on the box.
Keep Your Stomach Full
Ever felt tired after a large meal? Good news for you. Eating a healthy dinner or a snack before bed can help you fall asleep faster as your body will be busy trying to process what you just ate.
