How to Naturally Stop Restlessness in Bed

Restlessness can be an irritating condition -- and when you're trying to sleep, it can become unbearable. Perhaps you suffer from restless leg syndrome, which involves an itching or tingling feeling in the lower extremities. This condition often makes itself known just as a person is going to bed. Or perhaps your restlessness is mental, caused by the inability to get go of daytime anxieties or concerns. Regardless of the source of your restlessness, you want a remedy that is natural -- manufactured chemicals are not your style. Don't worry -- there are plenty of other ways to find relief from chronic bedtime restlessness.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to your doctor -- although you may not be amenable to prescription medication, it's important to find the underlying cause of your restlessness. Submit to bloodwork or other testing that may indicate a serious condition of which restlessness is a symptom. Discuss options with your doctor on how to treat this condition naturally. Go over any medications or herbal remedies you're currently taking, as these could be a source of restlessness.

• 2

  Examine your lifestyle -- certain actions you take during the day can cause restlessness at night. Discontinue the use of caffeine, alcohol and tobacco products, especially right before bedtime. Exercise during the day, but not too much and not before bed. Determine different sources of stress in your life, and make attempts to eliminate or minimize them.

• 3

  Practice yoga, meditation, listening to soft music or other relaxation techniques right before bed. Perform stretches on the entire body -- focus on the legs, especially the calves, if you have restless leg syndrome.

• 4

  Take a warm bath before bed; alternately, massage your legs (if you have restless leg syndrome) and apply moist heat to them. Have your partner (if you have one) give you a massage in bed.

• 5

  Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning. Maintain your sleep schedule even on weekends.

• 6

  Determine whether you are deficient in iron, folate or magnesium -- a simple blood test can serve as a diagnosis. Take daily supplements for these vitamins and minerals if you have a deficiency.

• 7

  Write down any worries or concerns you have before going to bed. Schedule time during the day to address (or even worry) about these concerns. Do not focus on them as you are trying to fall asleep, but know there is a specific time tomorrow to work on them.