Fighting Insomnia

By Lev Novak

So, you can’t sleep.

This is a common enough problem in college and beyond. Assuming you don’t actually have real sleep problems, and are more just “living a college lifestyle” this article should help. If, though, you think you have a real issue, look deeper into that with relevant professionals.

On to the article.

1. Make a Routine

Taking naps as you go, waking up for runs, essays, and/or hazing (be it at work or in Greek life) can make your whole biorhythm go crazy-go-nuts. If your body doesn’t know when to sleep or wake up, it’ll split the difference by getting you tired and wired half-way every hour.

That’s no way to live, and it’s no way to sleep.

So, whatever you do, make it steady. If sleep is an issue, wake up earlier on weekends. This sounds counter-intuitive, but if you tell your body that you wake up at 9 AM sharp, no matter the day, it’ll be true. Will you be tired on the weekends? Yes. But you might go to bed earlier, and it might be worth it.

It might not, though; if that’s the case, try waking up later, more consistently. Be productive at nights for working. It’s worked for me, at least.

2. Physical Activity

If you really can’t sleep, consider: if you spend your day sitting and writing, like I do, your body might not feel like its “supposed” to sleep. After all, sleep is supposed to come as a well-earned rest after being physically active cavemen. If you’ve been sitting and napping all day, sleep might elude you.

So, get your endorphins going. Make your awake time so different from rest that your body thirsts for it. Then, sleep well and deep. You’ll earn it, you’ll feel it, and it’ll make a change in your life.

I know, I know: easier said than done. But if you really want sleep, an hour at the gym daily is going to help. Plus, you know, the gym is already good for you.

3. Substances

Alcohol and Marijuana, despite being good personal friends of many twenty-somethings, actually impairs sleep.

I know, I know: it impairs quality. Google it. I wish it wasn’t true either, but here we are. If you’re having trouble sleeping, watch what you smoke and drink. This also extends to food, of course: what are you eating? Turkey famously makes you sleepy, but are you eating a balanced diet? Certain foods can disrupt sleep, and an uneven diet on a whole is a possible factor.

4. Lights

Computer screens train your eyes to see sharp light. Turn off all devices- phones too- before bed.

Or, at the least, lower the brightness. Baby steps, I suppose.

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