As we approach the much awaited spring, it is generally a positive time of growth and welcoming the new season. Even so, there is a less welcome drawback to the change which is seasonal or in this case, spring insomnia. As the clocks move forward, research indicates our bodies take time to adjust to the light mornings and increased activity as we respond to the longer days. After a few weeks our bodies adjust their circadian rhythm.
Although this is a cyclical adjustment we try to manage, sleep is a permanent problem for many people. According to the NHS, sleep problems affect one in three of us and tends to be more profound as we age. We may notice we are not sleeping very well when we can’t drop off to sleep; we wake in the night; wake too early or struggle to wake up in the morning and need to set ten alarms! Often we can be tired or sleepy during the day.
As adults we need roughly between 7-9 hours of sleep each night. There can be a number of reasons for disturbed sleep and some of the main causes are stress, anxiety and depression. There may be other contributory life style issues too. Sometimes clients tell me they feel sleep is an inconvenience which stops them from planning, working, watching tv/social media or socialising.
If sleep disturbance or deprivation continues it may become an insomnia habit, even an obsession, leading to issues which can include:
- Increased anxiety
- Short temper and irritability
- Lack of energy, motivation and existing in a constant state of exhaustion
- Overeating and snacking on high carb and sugary foods
- Forgetfulness and confusion
Prolonged sleep problems can lead to an increased risk of serious health concerns. Often clients will book in to see me with one or more of the above symptoms negatively impacting their lives. Insomnia may be the biproduct and the cause can often be found in struggling to cope with life issues, anxiety, stress and depression. I provide a recording as part of the therapy which can assist the mind to reprogram for sleep. Using hypnotherapy and the techniques I offer clients can improve mindset, perspective, relaxation and focus. This enables them to make and maintain desired changes which can restore good sleeping patterns.
It is certainly worth mentioning that some causes for insomnia may require medical intervention and speaking to your GP first is the safe solution to ruling out any serious health considerations.
With this in mind, please have a look at the information on my website: www.cardiffhypnotherapysolutions.co.uk
and when you are ready to make the desired changes to improve your quality of life, please contact Sue Pitman at the Whitchurch Clinic on 07795964066 and sue@cardiffhypnotherapysolutions.co.uk.