by Tab Moura
“2 am isn’t so bad,” I said to myself as I scrolled Pinterest. I am not going to sugar coat this, insomnia is definitely my least favorite neurological symptom. It’s the one I’ve lived with the longest, and even now with so many lifestyle adjustments… here I am. Writing a blog, because I cannot sleep.
Oooo check out that recipe!
That quote is definitely going on my grid.
Would this design style look good in my future tiny home?
In the days of “school nights” and therapy appointments, being awake at 2 am isn’t really the best use of my time… I keep myself busy because I can’t sleep… why can’t I sleep? Oh, I don’t wanna talk about that. I’ll just turn on a show while I scroll Pinterest… because my brain clearly needs more stimulation.
I can’t believe the Bachelor is still on the air
OMG people must watch this new docuseries!
This true-crime show is so old. No no no, no way that man murdered her!
But it never lasts…
Why did she look at me that way? Did I do something wrong?
This pain hasn’t gone away, maybe I should call my doctor.
They have how much homework?
That deadline is coming up, I just never get a break!
Did I rotate the laundry?
Do I have —
The cycle doesn’t break on its own… without crashing. I don’t know about you, I dread the crash… it always comes too late, and life always resumes on schedule whether I am rested or not.
Due to my Epilepsy, I cannot go for walks or bike rides alone, but from my research, I’ve learned how important exercise can be for those with insomnia. Because of this, one of my favorite resources is to hop on my stationary bike before bed and peddle away! Usually, I bike 5 mins on, rest, 5 mins on, etc, and try to breathe through my nose as long as I can. I wear a sweater, I use resistance, and I intentionally bike to warm up my body and (if possible) break a sweat.
As a person with chronic illness, let me be the first to say how cliche it feels to recommend that exercise may help. I know the face you’re making, just know I made the same face. The truth is, exercise alone isn’t the answer… otherwise, I would be asleep. This part is important, but it’s also not a magic wand. The human body is magnificent and complex. I mean, a brain— the organ we are experiencing reality with— can have disorders… it intrigues me. The brain and body have an intimate (some may say symbiotic) relationship. How you treat your body will affect your brain. What makes your body healthy will make your brain happy (like vegetables).
Research is saying that exercise can help you make new connections in your brain, improving memory and mental health outcomes. I challenge you to incorporate exercise of some kind into your daily routine for a week… grab your electrolytes, your headphones, and an open mind, and see where it takes you.