Following the death of a loved one, most of us have trouble sleeping. We spend hours lying awake, tossing and turning in bed and imagining all sorts. Others tend to use this time ‘productively’, by engaging in household chores, journaling, reading, watching movies….the end result is you’re likely to end-up exhausted the next day, and the cycle repeats itself again and again.
Here are some tips to help you cope better:
- Avoid taking naps during the day, as this will only make it tougher for you to fall asleep at night. If you are absolutely exhausted, you can try limiting your nap to 30mins max using a timer.
- Spend time with friends, family, colleagues or neighbour – those who will allow you to share your burden without judgment, so you at least have an outllet for your emotions and thoughts. Remember to be open to their suggestions to help you cope better, they may recommend activities to distract you – be willing to take them up on their offers.
- Invite close friends or relatives to spend the night with you every now and then.
- Eat well and exercise often
- Avoid electronics for at least 30-40mins before you go to bed.
- Create a calming bedtime routine – this can be anything from having a hot drink, a warm shower, reading a book or writing out your gratitude list.
- Lastly – talk to God about your fears and concerns, meditate on God’s word. This article from UCB’s Word for Today includes some bible passages to medidate on. https://www.ucb.co.uk/word-for-today/50016
