Some people, probably more than a few, have trouble going back to sleep after they wake up in the middle of the night. The truth is most everyone wakes up to some degree once or twice during their normal sleep cycle.
Those who fully wake up sometimes are also those who can’t seem to go back to sleep.
Nightly Sleep Cycles
People have heard about sleep cycles that include light, deep, and rapid-eye movement or REM sleep. However, what many don’t realize is that your body moves through this cycle multiple times in the night.
It’s during the light stages that you can be woken up more easily. The early part of the night leaves you in longer deeper sleep with REM and lighter sleep happening more and longer toward morning hours.
This is why many tend to wake up between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m. as their bodies make the route through the lighter sleep cycles.
What Wakes You
Anything can wake someone up if they are sleeping lightly. Most people believe they wake up because they have to go to the bathroom.
Doctors suggest that it is breathing issues that are really waking you up. Once you are awake, you feel you must go to the bathroom.
Things like sinus problems, allergies, and other mild respiratory and nasal issues could be behind most of your sleep problems.
Getting Back to Sleep
Aside from addressing breathing and other possible medical problems, like bladder and prostate issues, that could be affecting your sleep, you should have some methods on hand to get back to sleep.
Some suggestions include:
- Earphones with your favorite sleep music or podcast
- Keep a cool room with a warm, soft blanket, or quilt
- Try darkening curtains or shades to keep streetlights and moonlight out
Get Up
Experts say you shouldn’t just lie in bed trying to get back to sleep. Those who find sleeping impossible should get up and do something for 20 minutes to get sleepy. Stay away from electronics. Read or have some tea. Go back to bed when you are tired.
Conclusion
There are things you can do to improve your sleep like taking care of any physical problems, staying away from caffeine and alcohol at night, and getting exercise during the day. These will help you stay asleep longer and sleep better.
