WELLNESS CONNECTION · Medical

An Alternative Approach to Overcoming Sleep Disorders

By Barbara E. Savin, C.HT, Clinical Hypnotherapist and Energy Healing Specialist

March 05, 2010 - 6:00AM

Having a sleep disorder can be disruptive to everyday life. Sleep-deprived people are usually excessively tired, irritable and emotional. Alternative methods can help you approach sleep disorders, such as insomnia and restless leg syndrome, in a non-invasive way.

Natural treatment modalities can lessen the effects of sleep disorders. These methods include: proper diet and nutrition, herbs and supplements, relaxation and sensory techniques, meditation, hypnosis CDs or behavioral and cognitive strategies. Often, people use a combination of these approaches to help alleviate the symptoms of their sleep disorders. Take a closer look:

Healthy Diet. A healthy diet is essential for optimal energy and a restful sleep. Avoid certain foods that are grown, treated or processed with chemicals. Be sure to limit the amount of sugar and caffeine. Eat a wide variety of foods and drink plenty of water to keep your body well-balanced and to provide a more stable energy level. Eat the proper snacks before bedtime to increase natural serotonin levels. Serotonin acts as a natural sedative and is made in the body from the amino acid tryptophan. Foods rich in tryptophan include: chicken, turkey, cheese, cottage cheese, fish, milk, nuts, avocados and bananas.

Herbs and Natural Supplements. It is important to know how a specific product acts on the body and on the specific sleep disorder. For example, many people with restless leg syndrome (RLS) have an iron or folic acid deficiency. Taking an iron supplement may alleviate some of the symptoms of RLS. Many herbs are well known for promoting a natural sleep. Drinking chamomile or lemon balm tea can be very relaxing to many people who suffer from insomnia.

Exercise and Relaxation Techniques. Whether used alone or together, exercise and relaxation can reduce stress and muscle tension. Many people use these techniques (mindful exercise, progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercises and yoga) to lessen symptoms before going to bed, as they ease physical tension, calm the mind and prepare the body to sleep.

Meditation and Visualization. Used by some sufferers of sleep disorders to calm the body before sleep. Two common forms of mediation are meditation of the breath and mantra meditation. Both of these types can have a positive effect on relieving stress and calming the body. Many people focus their energy on a healing visualization as a method of alternative therapy.

Sensory Techniques. Hydrotherapy, meaning water therapy, includes relaxing in an Epsom salt bath or a lymph stimulating footbath. Aromatherapy includes the use of therapeutic essential oils in baths, massage oils, room sprays and simple inhalants.

Alternative Behavioral and Cognitive Strategies. Used to combat the symptoms of a sleep disorder, including improving a person's sleep hygiene, stimulus control therapy and journal writing. Alternative practices and techniques can help many types of sleep disorders. They are often used in conjunction with traditional medication and practices.

By taking advantage of some of these alternative treatment modalities, you will experience a good night�s sleep. In addition, you will reduce the symptoms of sleep disorders. Here�s to a peaceful night�s rest.

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