D,
Yes, sleeping disturbances are quite common among new quitters.
As a smoker, nicotine increased your metabolism and other processes, therefore robbing you of your energy. Now that you've quit, your body has a surplus of energy and doesn't need as much sleep to recharge itself.
The following tips may help you get back on schedule:
�Try to get on a sleep schedule. Go to bed at a regular time each night and get up at a regular time in the morning. Try to not stay up late watching TV and try not to sleep during the day. If you get on a sleep schedule, we guarantee that you�ll begin to feel better.
�Try to make the room you sleep in as quiet as possible. Consider ear plugs or a sleep mask.
�Use your bed only for sleeping. Don�t lounge around in your bed. If you spend too much time lounging in bed, watching T.V., drinking coffee, or eating, your body will learn that your bed is NOT a place for sleeping.
�If you can�t sleep after half an hour in bed don�t stay in bed trying to sleep. Get up and do some quiet activity. For example, read a book for a half hour and then try going back to bed. If you still can�t sleep, get up and do something quiet once again.
�Try to keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature - not too cold and not too hot.
�Try to get some exercise every day. You�ll feel better and sleep will come much quicker.
�Try not to exercise or work hard late in the evening. It could make you feel �wired�.
�Don�t drink anything with caffeine or alcohol for 4 hours before you go to bed.
�Try not to eat a heavy meal in the evening. Don�t eat just before you go to bed.
�If you�re not sleeping at night, avoid naps during the day.
�Use relaxation techniques. Box breathing may help you relax at bed time.
Danielle, Bilingual Support Specialist
