Detox. For individuals recovering from an addiction to pain medication, opiates or alcohol, the process is critical. Yet, it can often cause uncomfortable side effects such as insomnia. Restlessness, the inability to remain asleep and other sleep disturbances are common as the body readjusts to healthy levels of body, mind, and spirit during detox.
The good news is that these symptoms typically diminish over time during detox and eventually healthy sleep routines return.
During the process of detoxification, there are proven strategies you can employ to reduce the length and severity of symptoms associated with sleep disorders.
Using these four healthy sleep habits, you can get the rest you need on your journey to better health.
- Commit to a regular schedule.
It may seem tempting to sleep in on the weekend, but don’t. You can actually increase your risk of experiencing episodes of poor sleep. Set your alarm clock for the same time each morning (and don’t hit snooze!) and make going to bed at the same time each evening a healthy habit.
- Hit the gym.
According to research published by the National Sleep Foundation, 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity a week provided a 65 percent improvement in sleep quality. Why? Studies suggest that the body interprets the rapid increase, then decrease in body temperature as a signal that it is time to sleep.
- Check your thermostat.
Some studies have found that your bedroom’s temperature may help you get a good night’s sleep. While everyone has their own preference, many researchers suggest setting the thermostat to around 65 degrees for a night of sound sleep.
- Be aware of your screen time.
If you wake up in the middle of the night, reaching for your iPhone may seem like a good way to pass the time. But, smartphones and tablets can actually disrupt sleep. These devices emit “blue light” which is interpreted by the brain that it’s morning.
Get the Help You Need
If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction or drug abuse, 10 Acre Ranch can help you detox. We offer personalized treatment, as well as extensive aftercare support to help you maintain your hard-won sobriety. By emphasizing exercise, nutritional balance, and recreational activities, we encourage clients to develop a healing lifestyle that sticks—during and after recovery.
Call 877-228-4679 for program details or to discuss your customized recovery program with an addiction counselor.
