How hypnotherapy can help you sleep better.
Lack of sleep is an increasingly big issue in today’s busy modern world making us irritable, anxious, depressed and in some cases, at risk of serious disease. If this is something you’re experiencing then you’ll be relieved to read how my in-person and online hypnotherapy techniques can be used to treat insomnia and sleep issues.
Why do we need sleep?
If you want to get down to the absolute basics, we need sleep to survive - just like eating or drinking, you can’t live without it. It’s an essential function that allows your body and mind to recharge, repair and get ready for the next day. The average adult needs between 7 and 9 hours of sleep a night to ensure proper cognitive and behavioural function and feel well rested when they wake up.
What happens when you don't sleep?
You might think you just get very tired when you don’t sleep properly, but if you consistently do not get enough quality sleep you will start to see serious issues. Some of the issues associated with a chronic lack of sleep include:
High blood pressure
Increased risk of diabetes
Heart attack, stroke, or heart failure
Obesity
Depression and Anxiety
Hallucinations
Trouble thinking clearly or concentrating
Lower immunity
Low sex drive
What causes insomnia?
Emotional issues such as stress, anxiety and depression are common causes of insomnia, so getting support to treat these emotional issues is key to overcoming your insomnia.
How does Hypnotherapy help to overcome Insomnia?
It is a positive and enjoyable process which helps overcome the underlying anxiety or habits which may be contributing to insomnia, which in turn improves sleeping patterns and provides the support needed to make the lasting changes. The good news is that you can begin to overcome your insomnia by taking action to address the underlying causes and with some simple changes to your daily habits and routines.
My top tips for sleeping better:
1. Create good sleep hygiene
Think about the changes you can take to create better sleep hygiene and a relaxing bedtime routine. Create a plan of action such as a regular bedtime and waking time, avoid stimulants before going to bed (e.g. cigarettes and caffeine) and create a quiet, dark and comfortable bedroom.
2. Practice positivity
Turn negative thoughts and worry around, think about the positive aspects of the day and celebrate success. When we make a conscious effort to recognise the positive things in life, we build new helpful thought patterns which helps to reduce anxiety and promote good sleep.
3. Reduce exposure to bluelight
Remove all electronic devices from the bedroom and limit use of all electronic devices at least 1 hour before bed time.
4. Exercise
Get out and about in the sunlight, go for a long walk and ensure you are getting regular exercise.
5. Seek out professional support
Reaching out for professional support can be a big step, and is often the start of real focus and change for my clients. Hypnotherapy can help relieve the symptoms of insomnia in such a positive and uplifting way by treating the underlying factors, such as stress, anxiety and low mood.
Are you getting the sleep you need?
If you'd like to improve your sleep, please get in touch for a discussion in confidence and to explore if solution-focused hypnotherapy is a good fit for you.