How to sleep: Lack of exercise ‘is associated with insomnia’ – exercise tips

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The organisation says: “Moderate aerobic exercise can help relieve other symptoms associated with insomnia, too.

“For individuals with comorbid insomnia and anxiety, it can significantly lower pre-sleep anxiety, reducing the anxious thoughts that make it tough to fall asleep.”

The Johns Hopkins University health site says: “Recent research indicates that exercise decreases sleep complaints and insomnia in patients.

“The effects of aerobic exercise on sleep appear to be similar to those of sleeping pills. However, more research is needed to compare physical exercise to medical treatments for insomnia.”

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For most, sleep problems tend to sort themselves out within about a month, according to the NHS.

People with insomnia will regularly find it hard to go to sleep, can wake up several times during the night and lie awake at night.

They might also find it difficult to concentrate during the day because they are tired, or wake up early and find they cannot go back to sleep.

If you have insomnia for less than three months, it is called short-term insomnia. Insomnia that lasts three months or longer is called long-term insomnia.

“Some people are naturally lighter sleepers or take longer to drop off, while some life circumstances might make it more likely for your sleep to be interrupted, like stressful events or having a new baby,” the NHS states.

If poor sleep is affecting your daily life or causing you distress, you can talk to your GP.

As well as trying the paradoxical intention technique, there are several other methods to get a better night’s sleep.

The NHS recommends that you keep regular sleep hours, create a dark and quiet and cool environment.

The health body adds that some people find it useful to write down their worries and concerns, and set aside time before bed to make a list for the next day, if these stresses keep you awake.

Caffeine and alcohol can stop you falling asleep and prevent good quality sleep. Therefore, it is recommended that people cut down on alcohol and avoid caffeine close to bedtime.

Everyone needs different amounts of sleep. On average adults need seven to nine hours, while children need nine to 13 hours. Toddlers and babies need 12 to 17 hours of sleep, every day.

“You probably do not get enough sleep if you’re constantly tired during the day,” states the NHS website.

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