Tell people you’re having trouble falling asleep at night and they’ll offer advice…whether you want it or not.
“Sprinkle lavender on your pillow”
“Listen to soothing music before bed”
“Turn off all your electronic devices”
“Sleep naked”
All good tips. But what if none of them are working for you?
According to a recent article from the Journal of Experimental Psychology, ‘bedtime writing’ might be the answer.
A team from Baylor University found that people who made to-do lists before bed fell asleep roughly 9 minutes faster than those who didn’t.
And those writing more detailed and specific lists tended to nod off quicker than the writers who kept it vague.
Why?
The researchers couldn’t say for sure, but anyone who writes knows how powerful a tool it can be.
Writing has long been known as an important part of mental health.
Not only does it focus the mind, it can also give people an outlet for difficult emotions – some of which are only understood once they’re on the page.
“I write because I don’t know what I think until I read what I say.” – Flannery O’Connor
Writing a to-do list before bed is a way of saying you’re ready for what’s coming.
You’ve mapped out a plan for the future, you’re capable of tackling tomorrow’s challenges and you have confidence in yourself.
And with that kind of reassurance, you should sleep like a baby.
Catherine Morris 