10 Lifestyle Changes to Improve Sleep during Menopause

Menopause has a number of symptoms ranging from hot flashes to allergies, and all of them combined can cause yet another problem: sleeping disorders. A disrupted sleep pattern and lack of sleep can lead to a whole host of other problems like stress, weight gain, and irritability.

In fact, between the stages of menopause and postmenopause, the insomnia rate among women rises to nearly 40%. The good news is there are solutions for sufferers who do not want to surrender to prescription drugs.

Get Regular Exercise

This should not be done right before you try to sleep, as your body should energized when you should be winding down. You don't want to waste all those endorphins and adrenaline sleeping anyway.

Find Your Routine

Not only will setting a regular bedtime help your sleeping habits, but making a habit of eating your meals, exercising, and taking medication at the same time every day will help your body set its internal clock.

Don't Take a Nap

This can be difficult if you're exhausted from a lack of sleep, but powering though you day means you will be tired when it's bedtime. If you find it very difficult to stay awake throughout the day try lying down for no longer than 20 minutes between the hours of 2 and 4 p.m.

Avoid Caffeine

Caffeinated drinks should be avoided, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. Teas, coffee and carbonated beverages can all disrupt sleep patterns, and cutting out these drinks can provide a simple way to help combat sleeping problems. Instead, switch to fizzy water and decaff tea and coffee.

Watch What You Eat

Of course being a stable and normal weight promotes overall wellness, and therefore better sleep. As well as high-fat and high-sugar foods which can cause weight gain, avoiding spicy foods may also help you settle into sleep more easily.

Breathe

Inhale for three deep breaths and exhale slowly. Concentrating on your breathing also focuses the mind, and can help you switch off from pressures and anxieties of the day. This should help you feel more relaxed and ready for bed.

Wear Loose Fitting Pajamas

Tight-fitting nightwear and that made from synthetic material can exacerbate menopausal night sweats, by raising blood temperature. This symptom can often cause sleeping problems.

Remove the Television From the Bedroom

Studies show that watching T.V. can decrease your body's production of melatonin, a chemical that regulates sleep. You don't have to quit television completely, just limit your amount and don't fall asleep watching.

Relax Before Bedtime

Instead of doing last household chores, take time to unwind and de-stress before bed time by reading, visualizing, and taking some deep breaths. In fact, meditation has shown to reduce insomnia and other menopausal symptoms.

Drink Chamomile Tea

Chamomile a traditional medicine, it is used for cosmetic, and nutritional benefits.Also, Chamomile is a natural sleep-inducer.

Recommendation

If you don't see any improvements over time with lifestyle changes alone, it may be time to consult a professional about adding an herbal supplement to your regimen. Prescription sleep aids should be treated as a last option. Click on the following link to learn more about sleep disorders treatments.