I've been practicing mindfulness meditation for some years now and I kid you not, it's a game changer. Here's the thing: the cause of insomnia is often the mind's inability to switch off. You're lying there trapped in incessant thinking and what-if scenarios. What mindfulness does is develop the ability to guide our attention back to the present moment, which has a naturally calming effect. This creates more ideal conditions for sleep.

Why sleep when you can browse Reddit? 🤪

My solution has been a very traditional one: avoidance of all backlit screens for an hour before bed. I read somewhere that the blue wave spectrum light emitted by most screens interferes with the production of melatonin, a hormone that controls your sleep/wake cycle or circadian rhythm. Reducing melatonin makes it harder to fall and stay asleep. So put away those gadgets an hour before hitting the bed. It works!

While it might sound weird, I've found taking a hot shower an hour before sleeping helps me immensely. The transition from warm to normal body temperature triggers a drop in body temperature that leaves you feeling sleepy.

Lol I found out that counting sheep doesn't work at all…but moving my toes for 5 mins does the trick. Don't ask me why!! 😆

You're onto something real good there, friend. They don't just call it a 'cat nap' for no reason. Animals and humans have coexisted for centuries and such interactions can certainly have calming effects on the psyche. Something else you might consider is aroma therapy. Lavender is particularly known to induce sleep. Your cat might enjoy it as well!

Hey there, interesting hack. I myself found ASMR videos really helpful. It's not for everyone, but the whispering and gentle sounds can lull you to sleep in no time. Might be worth exploring.

OMG!! I do the same thing with my tabby!! Them purrs at night is the calmest thing ever, ain't it? 😹