How to Fall Asleep When You Quit Smoking

There are several health benefits to kicking the cigarette habit. Quitting smoking lowers your risk of heart disease and can reduce your likelihood of becoming sick with lung or oral cancer. Unfortunately, quitting smoking can cause side effects such as insomnia, wherein you might be unable to fall asleep or stay asleep during the night. Yet, there are ways to cope with insomnia after quitting cigarettes.

Instructions

• 1

  Wind down before bedtime. Watching stimulating programming on television or engaging in other high-energy activity up until bedtime can delay sleep and induce insomnia. Relax your mind and body before bed by taking a bath, dimming the lights or listening to soothing music.

• 2

  Start exercising. A regular exercise routine can help decrease stress levels and improve the quality of your sleep. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes of exercise three times a week. Work out in the early afternoon to ward off insomnia induced by over-stimulation.

• 3

  Limit caffeine. Sodas, coffee and teas consumed near bedtime can stimulate the body and make it harder to fall asleep.

• 4

  Promote sleep with supplements. Melatonin is a natural sleep aid available from pharmacies and health food stores. Take the supplement as directed to help improve insomnia after quitting smoking.

• 5

  Create a comfortable atmosphere. Sleeping in a hot room, or sleeping with the TV or radio on can disrupt sleep. Reduce the temperature in your home or use a fan in your bedroom.