So whatshouldyou do instead of freaking out that youre not sleeping?
Recognize that your brain is overreacting.
On average, adults wake up 10 to 12 times per night, according to Dr. Barwick.
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Sometimes, though, it can be hard to get back to sleep, and thats okay.
It doesnt mean your sleep is broken, Dr. Barwick says.
Simply recognizing whats happening may keep you from spiraling too far from dreamland, Dr. Barwick says.
it’s possible for you to try checking your catastrophic thinking by saying to yourself,Im actually okay.
My brain is just overreacting.This awareness can help you stay calmer, priming you to fall back asleep.
Being in a more anxious, aggravated state will override your sleep drive, Dr. Barwick explains.
Do something relaxing (that doesnt involve a screen).
Unfortunately, That practically guarantees you will stay awake longer, she says.
Thinking about the fact that yourenotsleeping can rouse your mind and make you more anxious.
A better move is to accept your situationdont resist being awakeand find an alternative focus.
(Twenty minutes is a recommendation, by the waynot a rule.
Dr. Barwick suggests gauging how you feel: Are you awake, alert, and starting to feel anxious?
Thats a good signal to get up.)
give a shot to keep your sleep disruptions in perspective.
Yes, sleep is important.
It gives you energy and helps you feel your best.
Its natural, then, to worry that you wont be able to function after asucky night of sleep.
People dont realize that you could typically function after a night of poor sleep.
You might be sleepier tomorrow.
Your workout might feel harder, and you might be a little more irritable.
The sleep system is self-correcting.
For me, all of the above advice has been key.
There were no expectations of me from others.
I didnt have to work or do laundry or return a text or hand a snack to someone.
And even when I dont, I ultimately feel more rested than I used to.
