Help, I Have Not Really Slept in like Ten Years

I have suffered with insomnia for as long as I can remember. About 8 years ago I bought a yoga DVD made by Giam called PM yoga (it usually comes in a set with an AM yoga session as well) I cannot tell you how amazing it is!!!! I had tried sleeping meds prescribed by my Dr and hated the side effects and melatonin, which gave me horrible nightmares. The PM yoga session is 20 minutes and I sleep like a baby when I do it. I've bought the same DVD 3 times over the years. Don't worry if you haven't done yoga before- it was my first try and I became a yoga convert. You'll love it! Good luck!

Just a side note, watch out for drugs like Ambien. They do work great (I also have not really slept in about 8 years), but after a few nights I find it is even harder to fall asleep with out anything, so in the end the drugs help you get a few nights rest, but end up making the problem worse once you are off the meds.

Hi T., I raised five children and then took care of my Grandparents until they died. I was up for years what seemed like every few minutes until I couldn't sleep at all. I literally would be awake for 3 and 4 days at a time unable to shut down. I finally went on Trazadone. I have no hangover affect from it and I still hear the soft scratch from the dog if he needs to go out at night. I was on it for a year and now am no longer but my sleep patterns were so screwed up, sometimes you just need help. Good luck, M.

It is so hard to be a good mommy when you are tired. At first I was up during the night with each of my babies, I have 3 that are no longer babies, youngest is Kindergartener. When they got older and not waking up, I still was.

The few things I changed were exercising regularly - T-Tapp, increasing my magnesium at night using a product called Natural Calm (cheapest at Vitacost), taking Cod Liver Oil (for Vitamins A and D) in the morning - based on the Weston A Price Foundation's recommendations, and cutting out sugar and grains since that was causing me to need to get up to go to the bathroom. We used to get enough magnesium (take calcium if you lack that too) and vitamins from our food, but with soil depletion and modern processing, many of our food are deficient.

Here are some things that help me:

-no caffeine or other stimulants that have caffeine (diet aids, medication, sodas, chocolate, coffee, teas) - especially within 2-4 hours of bedtime.

-stop watching tv or being on the computer at least an hour before bedtime since the glare/light can keep you from sleeping

-use room-darkening shades in your room.

-make sure your bedroom is only for sleeping - no clutter like bills, paperwork, laundry piles, or other distractions.

-keep the room temperature cool 69-73* is best. Wear socks. Put some lavender essential oil on your bedding.

-take a hot bath before bed.

-mediate with a relaxation CD: http://www.justrelax.cc/benefits.htm

-natural herbal remedies: http://www.herbalsupplements101.com/category/herbal-sleep...

Best of zzzzzz,
C.

My lifesaving advice: Chewable Melatonin from Trader Joe's. If you don't have a TJ's near you, you can still buy the regular melatonin tablets at Walgreen's or something. The ones at TJ's are 500 mcg. Take two to start for a while then go down to 1 as your sleep pattern improves. There is almost NO side effects the next AM. Just make sure you have at least 6 hours to sleep before taking it. I find that if I take it too late and get up too early, I am groggy. I feel that it is even safe for children occassionally. Many would freak at that...but it has been invaluable in times of crisis with my child. It is a natural substance by the way. After a month or 2 of regular need, neither I nor my child need it very often. Me maybe once a month and her less.

Also, nutmeg capsules. The nutmeg has made a HUGE difference in my friend's life. She woke as you did for decades and figured it was her normal thing. She started nutmeg and life really changed. She slept for 4-6 hours minimum before even budging. AND it was natural! She does fall asleep pretty quickly upon taking them, so be prepared.

Then there's activity monitoring: Make sure you aren't working out within 3-4 hours of bedtime. Don't watch TV within an hour or 2 of bedtime. Get a sleeping mask and also really darken the room. Put a small fan on even in winter (point it away if needed). Don't meditate or do chi or energy work within a couple of hours of bedtime.

Hi Tara
I too have had this very problem for about 21 years on and off. It drives my husband nuts. I just wanted to share with you a little of what I know about a product called Calm. It is calcium and magnesium. These 2 products will help to relax your nervous system and I take it about 1/2 hour before I go to bed. It is extremely helpful, it may take a few nights to take affect, but i am sure you will love it. It is also very inexpensive and lasts a long time. You can purchase it at Sprouts. Good luck

This one may sound a little weird but it really does work. Before bed just go outside and spend some time bare foot in the grass. Maybe 5-10 minutes, may vary from person to person. It's so simple that it's hard to believe it will work but it does. I hope you get some good sleep. Good luck and God bless.

Hi T.... I read the blogs on the sleep challenges and thought I would add my experience.

Sleep Deprivation is a huge challenge for women today. I not only suffered from it but now work helping others overcome the challenges. It can be caused by a combination of challenges.. but usually imbalances in the adrenal/thryoid/ hormonal area along with melatonin deficiency. We are a generation of women running on over-drive and at 40 hit what many have termed "suck the life out of me syndrome".

They have currently linked melatonin deficiency with breast cancer. I encourage all women to take a melatonin supplement.. this is a natural hormone and an important part of our overall health need. This is the hormone that allows us to get to sleep and stay in REM sleep. You can go to the health food store and ask for a melatonin natural supplement and take between 3 - 10 mg per night.

However, I personally am in love with a product called Fast2Sleep which I use and can be viewed at www.mywaiora.com/787149. This product is a all natural product which combines melatonin and some natural herbs that quiet what I call, the "commmitees" in my head, which can be a result of overtaxing the adrenal system.. running on adrenaline all day.

Many adults and children have been able to get off prescription meds with this natural product. I work with children in the add/hd - autism spectrum and there have been positive reports with this supplement in allowing them to sleep better and have calmer responses. My 12 1/2 year old son takes this product himself and feels calmer at night, sleeps soundly and is overall more balanced.

I also recommend a book that has helped many..there is a survey in the book which is very helpful in evaluating ones life and stresses.

*****Adrenal Fatigue.... can be found on Amazon

Also, there is a huge toxicity / body burden component to overall health challenges.. I encourage you to watch an incredible 10 minute documentary which outlines the issues

www.sharethecause.com/live

Take Care.. L. M.

Hi T.,
Can't believe I didn't respond to your initial request, but had lots of company during that time. I won't repeat all the things that were suggested below which are great.

I was a horrible busy head insomniac for years. You definitely want to address it ASAP because it generally does not get better on its own (unless it is situational). Getting into the deeper REM states is critical as it is when your body does the majority of its repair work.

One thing that was not mentioned below that helped me so much is a Nikken sleep system. http://www.nikken.com/sleepcenter/ has all the details of this high tech system that uses natural technologies - magnetic, infrared, rubberthane nodules and negative ions. I was a huge skeptic and borrowed it just to be polite, but over time it changed my life. There was even one time where everyone was talking about a huge windstorm that kept them awake all night. My husband and I looked at each other cluelessly. That is when I knew I was sleeping deeper. It has also helped the problems I was having with pain and discomfort at night due to arthritis. In the past 18 months, I've gone from being a huge skeptic (yes - I have lots of research if you are like me) to having seen over 80 amazing things where I've helped people and changed their lives. It is not my job, but rather my obligation. Happy to give you more info or even lend you a sleep system to try for a week (must be non-smoking household). People have said their snoring spouses tend to snore less or not at all!

Email me if you want more info.
Take care,
S.

Good Morning T. :)

My husband and I make every effort to avoid Rx and over the counter meds. He is on staff at a clinical lab in Norcross, GA. that also does research in body chemistry and establishing wellness.

Here's my tip... go to a reliable Herb or Health store in your area and ask for Physician's Grade Magnesium Citrate 400-500mg. Take one with water at your bed time each night...if one doesn't let you sleep thru the night...taking 2 will not hurt you. Be sure to ask for the CITRATE form...this will not upset your stomach at all. Mg Citrate is a natural muscle relaxant and will benefit you in other ways...but, focus on the sleep help for now.

Also...tip 2...go to the grocery store and get some Clestial Seasons "Sleepy Time Tea" (also make an "EXTRA" these days). Take your Mg Citrate and drink a cup of the warm tea at bed time.
By the way...best to have your PJs on before doing this...most folks find that it starts relaxing them right away.

At bedtime...sit down with tea and Mg...take several good deep breaths and try to clear your mind of "STUFF"...take the goodies and get a good night's sleep :)...START TONIGHT :)

Blessings, G. L.

Hi T.,
Have your thyroid tested!! I read through the responses to see if anyone posted about it, but when mine is even the slightest bit hyperactive, sleep becomes very interrupted!! (I can fall asleep, but can't stay asleep) Just a thought.
It's a simple blood test for Thyroid. I recommend it to everyone, if it's in the normal range (which has changed---see below)
"Until November 2002, doctors had relied on a normal TSH level ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 to diagnose and treat patients with a thyroid disorder who tested outside the boundaries of that range5 . Now AACE encourages doctors to consider treatment for patients who test outside the boundaries of a narrower margin based on a target TSH level of 0.3 to 3.04. AACE believes the new range will result in proper diagnosis for millions of Americans who suffer from a mild thyroid disorder, but have gone untreated until now."
January 2003 Press Release from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists
**http://thyroid.about.com/cs/testsforthyroid/a/labs2003.htm

Good Luck, if you need more info on thyroid stuff, I'd be more than happy to help!!

Hi T.!
Yeah i understand... But i have to take meds because if i don't i wake up durring the night and it takes time for me to get back to sleep, that would go on all night every night tossing and turning. But now i toss and turn but i can go back to sleep quickly. I have to take trazadone. And it helps

good luck!!! Let me know how things go ok?

Hello T.
My name is L. Coker. I want to introduce you to something that helped me tremendously. It is the Nikken sleep system.
Go ahead and go to your sleep clinic and if it fails then call me and I will loan you a sleep system to try if you like. I own an electronics firm and we were having layoffs in 2003. I could not sleep more than an hour at a time and that was not deep rim sleep. I looked awful. My insurance agent introduced me to Nikken because he knew about a back problem that I had from a car accident in 1984. The 1st night that I was on the sleep system I slept the night through. I couldn't believe it but I have been sleeping the night through for 5 years now.
I don't want you to buy anything until you have tried it.I would be glad to send you the demo system and let you try it. Just call me at ###-###-#### or email me at ____@____.com.
I know that this would do the job for you. I hope to hear from you soon.
Have a terrifiec day
God Bless
L.

Hi T.,

i see everyone has given you a lot of advice, some with drugs, some herbal remedies...but my husband has the same issues and he's well into his 40s and I'll tell you it shaves years off your life, creates unnecessary stress, you don't function as well in personal and professional relationships, and its affects your childrearing as well. He's a great dad, but the irritability and toll lack of good sleep has on a person is devastating to your health. Before the pills and sleep clinics and all the other stuff, consult a doctor about depression and related causes...and good luck.

Tara, I'm sorry to hear about your sleep. I can totally empathize -- I have been that way for 7 -- since my kids were born. I'm taking a yoga class this weekend which is geared towards sleep issues -- (It's at the Yoga Studio in Larkspur Landing)-- I've tried Ambien and lots of other sleeping pills, but they either make me feel groggy or have a headache. I'm seeing a fantastic doctor at CPMC Health & Wellness Clinc in SF, Dr. Cantwell. He has me taking 5HTP, which is a precursor to Seratonin, which helps with mood and sleep. Since we've increased my dose (by the way, it's all natural) I'm sleeping better. But I also take another supplement that has a special amino acid blend called Kavinace. You might be able to find it on the web. Homeopathy can also help.
Believe me, I've tried it all, and am still trying to figure it all out -- but these are things that are beginning to help me. Oh -- also Natural Calm is a powder you mix with warm water at night -- it's full of Magnesium, and helps you relax. That's all it took for a friend of mine to get to sleep and stay asleep.

good luck with it all..........

I think that you should have a sleep study done. Have your doctor recommend you.

Sorry I'm coming in late with this. Ambien is a great sleeping pill. When I was taking it I would fall asleep fast, stay asleep and wake up feeling great!! But it is a drug.

If you're interested in trying something all natural let me know. I've been drinking MonaVie for about 9 months now and I've never slept better or felt better. It is an all-natural drink made up of 19 different fruits (the whole fruit, skins, seeds and all!!!) with the crown jewel being the Acai berry from the Brazilian rainforest. It has more natural antioxidants than any other food/product on the planet and 4 oz. per day gives you 13 servings of fruits and veggies!!

So not only will you sleep better, you will get all your nutrients and have tons of energy. It can also help with joint pain, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, allergies and strengthen your immune system so you don't get sick. And it's just fruit!! I know you don't know me, but honestly it is the most amazing stuff! It has changed my life (I know that sounds cheesy, but it truly has).

Anyway, I'd be happy to give you a bottle to try. Just call or email me. ____@____.com or ###-###-####

Good luck!

I am a 48 year old mom of 3 girls (7,14 & 20), I have had trouble sleeping since 2001. After about 6 years of taking prescription meds off and on, it was a blessed accidental switch of doctors that, I believe, has gotten me on the road to a solution. This doctor referred me to a sleep clinic, where I spent the night while hooked up to a multitude of electrodes. I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and sleep with a machine which was ordered through this sleep study. I was shocked to find out just how many times I woke up (it was more than I thought), how many "episodes" I had, how often I moved, and also that I snore! It was not confirmed by this study, but I am almost sure that part of MY problem is related to peremenopause. What I also discovered (just last week)from using this cpap machine is that I have a serious sinus issue, which was discovered during a visit with an ear, nose and throat specialist. Im sharing all of this with you because it is more prevalent that we know. Most of my friends and even family have shared the same concerns. Not getting enough sleep has affected the basic quality of my life, including my effectiveness at work, and the quality of the time I spend with my family. It is a wonderful feeling now to actually get several "good nights of sleep!" Not completely out of the woods yet, but my road to my solution has been great. Much luck to you as you discover more about yourself and your body!

I would ask you what causes you to wake up? Pain? Thoughts? Restlessness? There are a vaiety of herbs that are totally safe without side effects that can help. Consult an herbalist. Hypnotherapy is another effective therapy, as is cranial sacral therapy and polarity.

Lavendar essential oil can also be helpful, put some on a cotton ball or tissue right beside your pillow.

Dont watch TV or spend time on the computer the last hours before bed. They can overstimulate the nervous system.

Looking at your diet can also be revealing. Avoid anything stimulating....coffee, black or green tea, sugar, etc.

THere ARE many natural ways to induce sleep. Find what works for you.

First and foremost, have a CBC done, as well as a TSH level done, with T3 and T4. A non-functioning thyroid can be part of the problem. I also recommend a sleep study. Good Luck, and hopefully you will get to the bottom of your problem.

I am like that and I am 50 now. I tried all kinds of sleeping pills and nothing worked. I use to feel groggy in the AM until around noon. I clean houses and office for a living o I needed something so I can get up in the morning and head out early. I tried Tylenol PM and can get up immediately and get moving. P.S. I have 10 dogs and then move around ALL night . LOLOLOL V.

T. I have the answer for you. I am a Himalayan GoChi juice representitive and let me tell you it works. You can order it right off of my web site at Barbgarcia.com. I am telling you we hit the pillow at night and sleep so awesome when we get up in the morning we are ready for the day (I used to hate mornings). The only reason I sell this product is because in my beliefs in all of the good it has done for me,my family and several of my friends. I really feel it is worth a try for you. The even better news is if you order it off of my site barbgarcia.com you have a 90 day money back guarentee. Let me ask you what do you have to loose? Except if you don't give it a try another nights sleep? Please feel free to give me a call ###-###-#### or cell ###-###-####.
This is the only way I know to try to help you

B. Garcia
Himalayan GoChi juice representitive
Barbgarcia.com
###-###-####
###-###-####

Hi T.

Come see me for a free consult and I'll find out if there is anything I can do to help you with that.

Farid R., DC
____@____.com

I found something that helped - I am a terrible sleeper and even use this for my kids, after getting the OK from our pediatrician.

Melatonin. I just found out that a lot of the melatonin on the market has too much for most people. You need a dose similar to what a healthy brain produces. I buy these chocolates from Dreamerz. You can get it from Amazon, but I go direct to the company and am set up on their auto ship program. It's really inexpensive. I go to Dreamerz.com. They have milk and dark chocolate. They also have fruit drink powder you add to water, too, and we like that. They sell a milk product, but I just received my first sample of that, so can't attest to the taste, but if it's like their other products, it'll work. The big thing for me, too, as a terrible night-waker, is that if I wake up to use the bathroom, I found I wasn't groggy! Great for when you have a young baby to feed! And it's safe with other meds - I've been on cold meds that make me sleepy, and my doc. okayed using the melatonin w/that, too.

The other thing is to also discuss this with your doctor. Please do. I was told by two separate doctors to do a sleep study, and finally gave in. I found I had moderate sleep apnea. I wake up 20 minutes an hour! They are having me use a CPAP machine - haven't used it yet, but I know from the study, where they tried it, it helped, and others I've talked to have attested to it. It's only used for medical reasons, so it's not taken lightly. However, I'm amazed by how many people I've found out are using it!

Good luck to you, and please do see your doctor. I'm finding that lack of sleep really causes all kind of havoc on your body, especially as we age. Plus it makes us too tired and short-tempered to be the kind of parent we want to be.

well maybe the Dr will be able to do some tests on you to see if there is a way to go without sleep aides but if not there are many that wont make you groggy,you don't have to be on high dosage either,but good luck with your sleepless issue... I have the same issue don't sleep that well but at same time I am a night owl... I do get up in morning and do what I have to but if needed I will nap....Anyways good luck....

myself and my boys were also having trouble sleeping we recieved a checkup and were fine the doctor told me to take and give them melatonin tablets they sleep like babies no getting up in the middle of the night ask your dr. and see what they think it is all natural and safe your brain just isn't producing enough. but like I said check with your dr. so you get the right dosage to help.

I don't know if it will work for you, but here are a couple of things that I've tried with success.
1. Beware of caffeine. Know what your taking in and at what times of the day. Don't drink caffeinated drinks in the afternoon if you can avoid it.
2. Yoga. There are a couple of really nice nighttime routines that you can get on DVD that just help your body wind down and get ready for rest.
3. A nighttime routine. I'm sure your daughter has one, it can work really well for you, too. This works really well for me if I shut off the TV or computer a while before going to bed.
Now, take this all with a grain of salt. The fact is I'm writing this at 4am because I couldn't sleep ;)

I know you put out with request a while ago but I was also having trouble sleeping for the past year. I found this amazing supplement called Vivix that helps protect and rebuild your cells. Everyone else I know who uses this has found that they are sleeping better, waking up refreshed and have consistent energy throughout the day. You can watch a clip on YouTube about the science behind if and the scientist that helped create it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCBKfqanYX0
You can only get it online at www.shaklee.net/L.
Good luck. I hope you are sleeping better soon.

yes. try yoga. it works. you can use a book or cd (most libraries have ones you can borrow). gaiam and amazon have a large selection.
meditation and relaxation cds and books are good also.
in my experience it's when i haven't had enough exercise during the day that i can't/don't sleep well or if i have too much on my mind.
setting calming night time rituals help as well, warm bath, candles, camomile tea...a lot of folks will suggest looking at your diet (not eating right before bed, and limit refined sugars during the day)
good luck, it's not a fun situation to be in, yet if you really don't want to be in it, you'll work to get out of it..

T.,
Hi there. I too have sleeping issues and have prescription medication, however, don't like taking it. So after some research, I found a really good nutritional supplement (I actually sell it now)that has given me back some energy and allowed me to fall asleep quicker and stay asleep. It has several other benefits as well. I work out daily and stay away from caffeinated beverages after 6 pm, plus cut fluids back so I am not getting up to go to the bathroom. If you are interested in learning more, feel free to check out my website at: www.myvemma.com/davidandcolleen The product is great and we, including my husband and girls have been on it for almost a year now. As with all things, you need to take it for a while, but sleeping better was one of the first things I noticed and that was within the first month. Try it out, it has a money back guarantee if you don't notice any results.
Good luck,
C. L

So much good advice and I'm going to try some of it too as I'm not a good sleeper either and natural remedies are best. But have to throw my solution out even though it's prescription - Lorezepram. It's kind of like Valium and you can take it all day long if you needed. I just take .5mg when I wake up and can't get back to sleep. It amazingly calms your mind and I feel so much better the next day as I think it makes me sleep deeper. My husband hates any kind of pill, Nyquil etc. He tried it once when he was super stresssed and was amazed.

Have you tried Melatonin? It's an all natural aid for sleeping. You can buy it at any health food store or the vitamin section in the grocery--get the time-released version. It works wonders.

you didn't say if you are married so I will not reccommend a normal sleeping pill
BUT
I think if take a tylenol PM at night it will keep you sleeping a little bit more

a few questions for you to think about:
are you worrying about things that will wake you up? money? your job? just the normal stress triggers?

do not take this tylenol PM every night but an occassional night would be helpful. you certainly do not want to be dependant on it.
if you are alone I would reccommend that you have someone stay the night in case taking this idea makes you sleep too good especially with the baby.

OK I added this after I read the other responses (and they were all good) I would not go really drastic first time out I would try any of the lesser method first like the caffeine intake relieving the stress in your life (like that can happen over night LOL) changing your bedtime routine, possibly reading a magazine because it ends on every page and you do not have 200 pages to see the ending. and do not stress over the fact that you are actually up every time you do wake up. that alone will prevent you from sleeping. just grab your magazines and soon you will have your magazine wrinkled under you because you fell asleep without putting the magazine down (which is a good thing)

Hey Terra,
I have been an insomniac for years! And it sounds to me like you have as well. Not staying asleep is also a symptom of insomnia. I have tried everything from over the counter and prescription meds. Nothing worked. I mean nothing. Then I had my first daughter and my OB recommended Bennadryl tablets. Perfectly safe to take daily-even while pregnant. And I have been doing so ever since. Sure, every now and again I have a restless night or a bout of restless nights but I can really now say I am a normal sleeper! Hope this helps, I have been there:)
S.

There can be a lot of reasons why you are having trouble sleeping. Are you having a hard time falling back asleep? Are you having dreams that wake you up? Are you stressed and having racing thoughts.

There are lots of natural techniques to deal with various sleep problems but you have to know which problem you are addressing.

I would see a professional. Start with your PCP or doctor of chiropractic.

I'd be happy to help point you in the right direction.
Dr. J. Kuty
Kuty Chiropractic
###-###-####

Hi T.,

I know that a low progesterin (sp?) level can cause a lack of sleep. You might have that checked and look into something called bioidenticals. They are natural non-synthetic hormones that might help you alot. Good luck.

K.

You are missing out on such a healthful, wonderful part of life; you must got to a doctor. I went through a brief period of sleeping 10PM-12MIDNIGHT, then I'd be awake from midnight until 9 or 10PM the next day. This continued for 2 months and I started to have horrible pain all over my body, my jaw stiffened and I could hardly open my mouth, and I had trouble remembering things. I was even at risk driving. I do not take an actual sleep Rx like Ambien, etc. but I did start taking a very low dose (20mg) of nortriptylene which helps me fall asleep and stay asleep. My mom and brother have both done the sleep studies and now use the medical device to sleep; it has completely changed their lives. For me, the melatonin didn't help. Your situation sounds so extreme that you really need to see a board certified physician who knows what to do and how to get you the studies, tests, Rx that you need. Make the time b/c it will age you and hurt your health and life in ways unimaginable.

I hope this helps you I got this from my Dr. before bed take a small glass of RED WINE. Now, I must tell you I myself have never been a drinker. But this really does work and it is better than taking pills. Try it if it does not work at THE VERY least you will be SLEEPLESS AND HAPPY LOL.

M.

I know you dont want to take anything but I dont sleep well either and have to get up at 445 for my job. I am a night person so I just take one advil or tylenol pm and it takes the edge off. My doctor said that these type pill are far less addicting that anything else she could suggest.
Hope that helps

Hello T.,

I do feel for you I had some sleeping problem in the past too.
After surching for many years I did found my balance and still working on it.

All the things I did are natural.

Let me know if you are interasted

Annette

I have recently started taking a nutritional supplement called Vemma and me and my husband have both been sleeping better. My father has Pagets disease and couldn't sleep from the pain he was in and he is now taking VEmma and sleeping MUCH better. It's all natural so you and the kids can take it. visit my site for more info..

www.myvemma.com/bwynia

the best thing for helping combat sleeplessness or restless sleep is Calmazon - it is an all natural blend of wild grown herbs from the Amazon and has been formulated specifically to calm the nervous system - if you want more info about it feel free to contact me - good luck

I am usually wary of sleeping pills because they can knock you out (not good if you have a kid who needs you at night), have side effects, and can be addictive. One alternative that has worked well for me is herbs. The Herb Store has a nice tincture that has helped me and others I know to get to sleep without all the nasty sleeping pill stuff. The formula is called Calm - you just take some a bit before bedtime. The other thing that's helped me is using self-hypnosis techniques to relax my body and help me quiet my mind when I can't stop thinking at bedtime. I hope this helps. Sweet dreams!

Hi T.,

You may be interested in looking into naturopathic medicine. Naturopathic medicine looks at lifestyle, diet, herbs, acupuncture, vitamins and bioidentical hormones to restore your health, and sleep, naturally. That's right, without grogginess! You may want to have your hormone levels tested to see if they may be playing a part in your difficulty sleeping.

I know it's hard to take time out for a doctor's appointment, but taking care of yourself will help you have the energy to be there for your family, and it lets them know that their health is important too.

www.lifesculpting.biz/staff -Chandler
www.naturopathic.org

Hi T. -

Sounds like stress is keeping you awake. There are many natural practices and/or remedies to help with that. Flower essences will help balance the body on an emotional level so you can relax and fall asleep naturally. Aromatherapy will provide a relaxing fragrance through the use of essential oils that will relax the body (while the flower essence relaxes the mind).

If these don't work, there are several herbs that are specific for insomnia.

Let you know if you need more information.

Blessings,
M. M. Ernsberger
Certified Clinical Herbalist

Since this problem has been going on a long time (not related to pregnancy/motherhood) I'd see if your medical insurance wuld pay for a sleep clinic. They could watch you and really analyze what's going on.
Have you moved within the last ten years? If not...may there be something in your environment you are sensitive to? It might not even be visible...like chemical, or light, or energy waves.

Hi T.,

I would talk to your doctor about it as it is a real sign of depression. I have to be on medicine for mine and started getting better sleep almost right away. There may be other things causing it as well. I would strongly suggest talking to your doctor as your sleep is important to your mental and physical health. please take care of yourself. It is important for your whole family that you are in good health.

D.

Hi T.,

I have the very same problem. Just this very morning I woke up in tears telling my fiance that i don't want to live like this anymore. I've tried EVERYTHING. Teas, warm baths, reading (I love to read), and OTC medications... Nothing works. It's seems to be getting worse too... Im going to see a doctor next week about it. Ive read that insomnia may be a sign of an underlying illness or medical problem. If i were you, I would see a doctor too.

You poor thing, I can sympothize with you. Here are two natural ways that have helped me sleep. 1) Try Pure Valarion Root. You can get it a your local Sprouts or Health Food Store. I do not use it regulary because it makes it a little hard to get out of bed in the AM. The second one I rely on about 3-5 night a week. It is a chamomile&mint tea. The name brand is Bigelow and it is in a blue box, and states"Sweet Dreams" on it. I have aslo purchased some other name brand teas at the Oriental Market in chandler that have had Chamomile and Hibibcus it. Both are ingrediants that help you sleep through the night. I try to treat any symptom I have with Herbal teas before rushing to the Doctor simply becasue they are natural and do not add other toxins and poisins into my body. These both work for me and I hope they do the same for you. "GOOD LUCK"!

Tara you are not alone!!!!!
most likely you have a sleep disorder. I am not a doctor however, for the past 8 years I have run the gammet....can't even get to sleep. stay up all night. wake up ever hour on the hour. having night after night of strange dreams.
I was told Sleep Apnea but of course have allergies, prescription drug side effects, you name it. I am only 38 and trying to qualify for SSD. i can not function normally. Just taking care of the house is overwhelming(I gave up try to keep a clean house) and then there is the 6 and 7 year olds to take care of and do not forget the Husband when he comes home from work.
It is still all a mistery how I got here. I can remember be a high energy person in another decade with my husband and 17 year old.
It is truly a internal illness. People can not see how you feel. All they can remember is that you functioned normal and had more energy before but what is.......
Good Luck!!!!
YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Tara,

Your doctor could have you tested for vitamin D deficiency. If you are in fact lacking in vitamin D, it will take a prescription, but that should take care of the problem.
I hope you get the sleep you need. Good Luck!

How about a B12 shot - I know you don't want to go to the doctor but they help - ever since I started getting B12 shots - I sleep better, I'm more relaxed and I have more energy. I get mine at Life Sculpting - check them out www.lifesculpting.biz or call for Dr's availablily - they are only $12.00 per shot and takes about 10 minutes of your time. Good luck!

Been there done that! I'm open to sharing my experiences with you and hope I am sorting out how to get better sleep. This is a private reply. My address is: ____@____.com

Important to know: Exercise every day. Yoga helps especially and for me, bike riding. Sugar consumption can cause loss of sleep, also depression.

I was a morning person, too -- still am. I am in my mid forties and have been through a lot with not getting enough sleep. I recently discovered Young Living Oils and am surprised that Lavender oil really helps me. I am at the beginning of learning about this company. You can look them up on the web -- to learn more about their natural healing options. Their address is: www.youngliving.com

If you want to sign up (get better prices, and honestly I am new to this and just excited to have found help sleeping), they have several starter kits. My Customer ID is ###-###-####. They've been really helpful to me. Anyway, SWEET DREAMS!

Sincerely,
L. Didschuns

Hi T.,
Great question and conern...me too with the same problem. I've had sleep problems for many years, which is such a problem come later afternoon.
Here's what I do:
1. Try VALERIAN ROOT. I've used many different sleep aids. This one is all natural, safe, effective. I don't need falling asleep, I just keep waking up frequently through out the night. With Valerian root, I sleep all night and wake up in the morning. It's so effective, that I'm frequently shocked when I wake up and it's the morning. I never feel loopy from drugs, or groggy.
2. Sleep Hygiene is critical. Just as we teach our babies to eventually self soothe with a relaxing bed time routine, WE need to practice this also. Take time for yourself in the evening to prepare for bed. I personally wash my face with a warm wash clothe, lotion my face and throat with a nice smelling night cream. Brush, floss and I love silk pajamas and wonderful soft cotton sheets (minimum 400 count, anything less is too scratchy). Make your bedroom a sanctuary for you.
Sweet Dreams!!
Jennifer

Lots of good advice here and I just wanted to add to it. My thyroid hugely affects my sleep. I took T4 (what is normally prescribed) and that didn't help my sleep at all. When I do T3 though, it makes all the difference in the world, sleepwise. www.wilsonsthyroidsyndrome.com has more info - check out their dr. list. Also, melatonin is a fantastic supplement and works for many. I would recommend starting slow on it though. I do great on a tiny dose - like .3 mg! But on the larger doses like 2-3 mg., I actually got a little depressed. So it is all personal and depends on your own body. 5-HTP and Inositol are also great supplements to help you sleep. Calcium and Magnesium are deficient in many people so that can never hurt and is most likely going to help you relax. Vitamin D3 can also make a big difference as well. Many are deficient in that and it can help our bodies relax, affect pain levels, etc.

Good luck!

Hi T.,
I am still in your situation. Even to the point of recently waking up driving in a different traffic lane - everyone was okay but it terrified me! The advice you were given is great. I'm going to try some of the natural remedies first. Good luck to you all!
L.

I am not sure if this works or not, but there is this medicine called Midnite. It is sold over the counter by the other sleep aids. It is not addictive and it is suppose to help you sleep no matter what time of the night you need it. It also is suppose to make you feel good in the morning as if you had a full nights rest. I know they now sell it at Walmart. I thought I would pass this on.

Hi T.-
Here's what I do- I have fibromyaligia, which produces the same results you are experiencing. I take calcium-magnesium supplements (the pills are together in the proper ratio)to total at least 2,000 mg's per day. Don't take all at once. Take each with a glass of water once every 20 minutes by 7:00 at night. (I can't use the citric carbonate because of a citrus allergy) You'll get your own pee schedule down and adjust accordingly. Also, a half an hour before bed, at least 3 mg's melantonin, and 470 mg's valerian. Adjust as needed (more or less). Everything can be purchased in a decent pharmacy. No alcohol before bed, and no caffeine after noon. You may still end up with the sleeping pills, but this worked to stave mine off awhile. Chamomile tea helped. Add relaxing massage by a licensed LMT weekly, if you can afford it. Soak in a warm (not hot) bath. Don't allow anyone not totally trusted to sleep in your house, or to have a key. There is some really good reason your body is so hyper-alert. I accessed my problem with Eye Movement Reprogramming. Five minutes, and the body 'talked'. 'Course, you'll have work to do afterwards. Be sure that you wish to know. Hope this helps- S.

Hi T.,
There are some wonderful pieces of advice already shared. Try all the "Natural" suggestions that you find appealing. But, if you have and are still struggling, see a doctor. Do not delay. The latest research about sleep deprivation shows how important quality sleep is. YOu may home a physical factor that needs more intervention. It's wise to start with natural. But don't delay. You have a little one that needs a mommy that is healthy for many years to come.

T.,
A few people recommended Calm or Magnesium. I found this to work as well, but wanted to warn you that very loose stools are a side-effect. My stomach was a mess the next morning. Luckily, my doctor had warned me, so I knew what to blame for it. Good luck.
-C.

ambien..sleeping pill but you wake up feeling fantastic, never groggy