One of the most problematic issues that I’ve had to deal with since going through menopause was insomnia. I was one of those people who’d put their head on the pillow and be out within two to three minutes, but once the change of life happened, hurling ZZZZZ’s were a thing of the past. A few years ago I decided that I just couldn’t function on only four or five hours of sleep a night (and some nights I got NONE) and began my quest for dreamland.
I asked my doctor for H-E-L-P. He reluctantly prescribed me a popular sleeping pill. I fell asleep easily, but woke up feeling groggy and even more tired than I had with the little sleep that I got naturally. Then after only a week of using them, I began getting side-effects that had me flushing them and returning to the doctor for more help. Because of the side-effects, he told me emphatically – no more hypnotics and that I should try Melatonin. It was still a struggle to fall asleep, but I found myself sleeping a lot longer than I had naturally….then the dreams started. Some of them good, some nightmares, but ALL of them were so VIVID that I’d wake up in a panic. Another flush and I was at my wits end and so was my doctor. He finally told me that I should just warm a glass of milk and drink it before going to sleep. Beside the fact that I’m lactose intolerant (which I would take acidophilus for), it really didn’t do the trick.
As you know I finally began a regimen of bioidentical hormones and other more natural methods. The progesterone cream that I rub into my skin each night allows me a very peaceful sleep, I’m thinking of adding LiveTru essential lavender oil as lavender is a well known relaxer (plus, I LOVE the scent). With all of the medical advice that I sought, it turned out to be the more natural approaches that worked best for me.
Next on my list...find a natural way to get rid of the hereditary dark circles under my eyes and bags. I’m in the process of researching these now and I’ll keep you updated with my findings.
Photo courtesy of Gözde Otman
For me the answer
Tricia Nightowlmama says
I too have tons of sleep problems never thought to use oils for that
Amy @ Pixie Deals says
Sleep problems are definitely no fun!
Karen says
Blueblocker glasses are somewhat helpful, too.
Lolo says
Being able to sleep is a must!! Excited to hear about your dark circle finds!
HilLesha says
Passion Flower, Valerian Root, and Skkucap are really good for insomnia.
HilLesha says
Skullcap, I mean. 🙂
Dawne Strehl, D Magazine says
I too started having sleep problems 2 years ago and have been taking Lunesta and have had a hot little affair with the lovely blue pill which are made by sweet baby cherubs. (I kid around but I am so happy to have it!)
As for dark circles? A fix is Cle de Peau (sp?) It has been Neiman’s and Style Mag’s top concealer for the last two years. It is the best for coverage and creamy-ness. My personal everyday fav is by Chantechalle Bio Dynamic concealer. It doesn’t cover the really dark circles but looks and feels wonderful! Love it!
Regards, Dawne at D Magazine
Donna says
Have you ever tried Valarian Root? It works wonders. I’ve been taking it on and off for over 4 years now. It does take 4 to 6 weeks before it starts working, but it has been a life saver. Whether I get 4-6 hrs sleep or 7-8, I never feel groggy. My hubby started taking it about a month ago, and he can tell a difference. I researched it a lot, and feel comfortable taking it… and my doctor gave it his okay, as well. I would recommend researching it. 🙂
Maureen @ Wisconsin Mommy says
I’ve used Melatonin but have never experienced what you described. I guess everyone really does react differently to anything they take.