5 Things To Do When You Can't Go To Sleep

By Ayesha Nadiadwala on July 27, 2015

Having insomnia? Tired of tossing and turning? Do not reach for sleeping pills just yet and try these 5 things that can help you fall asleep.

1. Answer nature’s call

 One of the most likely reasons you cannot go to sleep is a filled bladder. We have been toilet trained since childhood and it has been long since we said goodbye to old wet diaper days. Hence, our body finds it unnatural to allow us to fall asleep until we have answered nature’s call. If you are feeling heavy in any way, try going to the bathroom and perhaps splashing some water on your face as well.

2. Got milk?

Take a sip or actually drink a small cup. Your grandma was right, milk actually helps you fall asleep, thanks to the natural supplement of tryptophan, a sleep inducing amino acid. Although it is present in small amounts, still worth a try to just warm up some of the white liquid in the microwave.

3. Read a textbook

I find myself falling asleep more when I want to study and a hard cover textbook especially requires a lot of motivation. A textbook of a boring nature (and they are very easy to find) is a common sleep inducer among college students. See if it works on you too.

4. Listen to soul-soothers

Put your ipod or Youtube to good use. Listen to something that puts you at peace whether it’s a spiritual healing music playlist or sad songs. I usually listen to melodious Qur’an recitations with translation because it really is like God is talking to you.

5. Watch baby animal videos

Youtube is full of cute baby animal videos and Vines compilations. My personal favorite are those of kittens but you can find a wide spectrum ranging from elephants to sloths. The melting meows and coos seem to be cuddling you to sleep.

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