Are You Experiencing Weird Dreams?
Music Therapy recommends ways to support a better sleep if you have lived strange dreams;
During this enforced time of change our diet and drinking habits may be very different. If we’re getting up later we may be skipping breakfast or combining breakfast and lunch, rather than grabbing a sandwich and eating on the go. Our coffee habit may be different and alcohol sales have certainly soared. These sudden changes impact on our metabolic rate and affect our sleep and dreams.
- Establish a new daily routine. Getting up at the same time, showering, getting dressed, maybe working, exercising, taking regular meals all introduce order into your life and help you to feel more in control.
- Exercise, especially in the fresh air, is important in relieving stress and supports better sleep and dreaming. Being exercised mentally and physically allows us to tire and feel ready for sleep. If you’re unable to walk maybe spend time in your garden or perhaps use one of the many free online exercise classes which offer something for all abilities.
- Be vigilant about diet, eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Use this time to perfect your cooking abilities or start baking from scratch, maybe involving other family members too. Avoid the temptation to start drinking alcohol earlier each day, or consuming too much coffee.
- Ration your time watching the news or on social media. Nothing significant is likely to have happened in the last hour so avoid constantly checking for updates. Let yourself be distracted by other, more positive activities.
- Count your blessings. Yes, there’s much to be upset about but worrying won’t change that. Focus on what you do have; discover benefits, gratitude and smiles throughout each day and notice your stress levels gradually lessen.
- Allocate time for working and being productive. Set up a work station and designate specific hours for work or study. Why not commit to learning a new skill, a foreign language, practicing a musical instrument, reading or craft work. Treat this as important me time.
- Keep in contact with others. A phone call or online group can be a pleasant way to share advice or discuss how you’re feeling and coping, especially if you’re alone. Maybe send a ‘thinking of you’ card to someone who’s on their own. And many business owners are finding that by being more flexible they’re able to keep in touch with customers and continue trading to some extent.
-Record your successes and achievements each day and have treats. A leisurely bath, reading or pamper session are important ways to relax, manage stress and invest in a good night’s sleep.
