How to Relax When Exhausted

Exhaustion is exhausting. Few things are more frustrating than being completely exhausted but unable to relax enough to go to sleep. This lack of sleep leads to deeper exhaustion, adding to a vicious cycle of stress and sleepiness. Ultimately, the only way to stop the cycle is with several good nights of sleep. Find a way to relax yourself enough to get some shut-eye, and you'll find the process gets easier every night.

Instructions

• 1

  Wind down for a few hours before it's time to go to bed. Stay away from stimulating activities, like exercise, during the late hours of your day. Instead, wind down with a book or by watching television.

• 2

  Think about something other than sleep. Focusing on why you can't sleep will make it even harder to accomplish your goal. Instead, focus on something lighthearted, like what color you would like to paint your kitchen.

• 3

  Avoid caffeine as much as possible in the second half of your day. Consuming too many stimulating foods and drinks before bedtime makes it difficult to relax.

• 4

  Try progressive muscle relaxation to wind down. Start this exercise at one end of your body and work all the way to the other end, tensing and then relaxing, one muscle at a time.

• 5

  Take a few deep breaths. You automatically breathe quickly during times of high anxiety. If you force yourself to slow down your breathing, taking slow, deep breaths, you'll force your body out of its high-stress state.

• 6

  Turn off the lights. If you keep them on, you'll find yourself becoming distracted.

• 7

  Think happy thoughts. Visualize a pretty picture, maybe of a place you'd like to visit; close your eyes and focus. You may be able to get your mind off whatever is bothering you.

• 8

  Tackle a few chores. This may seem counterproductive, but you'll relax easier knowing you've reduced your to-do list.