Sleep Disorders

My name is Karen, I'm 45 years old, and have suffered with a chronic sleep disorder for as long as I can remember. I have expended a great deal of time, energy, and study in an attempt to, if not overcome, at least to minimize the occurrences of those long, sleepless nights. I?ve done a great deal of research and with the help and advice from medical professionals, therapists, friends, and family, I have come to better understand my disorder, and develop strategies that help me. I?ve found this site quite helpful and in return I thought I might share some of my experiences with those of you that also come to visit and learn in hopes of a good nights sleep.

As with many disorders, the causes and cures for insomnia vary with each individual, but I do believe that the two most common causes of sleeplessness are stress and anxiety. In my experience it is those busy periods, times of uncertainty, occasions when things of concern are out of my own control that my sleep deprivation is at its most severe, all those times when I need my brain and body working at its best. Life runs at such a fast pace that I often get caught up in it, rather than setting my own course. The key to setting my own course is slowing down, taking time to step back, clear my mind, and breathe; in short, RELAX. What I have discovered is that by taking this time I see ways to increase my productivity and enhance my quality of life. I have found that sound greatly affects my mood and through avoidance of negative sound stimuli, and seeking out positive sound stimuli, I have a control over my stress and anxiety. This sight has provided me with information and resources that have helped me achieve this control. I can?t say that my sleeping disorder has been alleviated, but it has certainly become less severe.

I encourage anyone who hasn't visited www.soundsleeping.com to take some time and investigate it fully. It can really help, and it sure can?t hurt. And please, those of you that have had similar experiences with sleep problems, share with me your thoughts, experiences and strategies. Knowledge is power and I would like to learn to better achieve a "Sound Sleep".

Karen Altman is a regular contributor at www.soundsleeping.com, a website that provides music and advice to help people with anxiety, stress, and/or sleep problems.