08/08/2025
Overthinking and Sleep:
A Common Challenge:
Overthinking is one of the common reasons people struggle with sleep. While the body is tired, the mind remains active, caught up in thoughts about the past, worries about the future, or random ideas. If you're experiencing this, don't worry. There's a simple and natural method to calm your mind and drift off to sleep.
A Simple Technique for Better Sleep
1. Lie down in a comfortable position and close your eyes.
2. Take three long, deep breaths.
3. Focus your attention on your breath, feeling the sensation of the air entering and leaving your body.
4. For the next 11 minutes, maintain your focus on your breath. Don't try to control it; just observe it.
5. If thoughts arise, gently bring your attention back to your breath.
Why This Technique Works
This exercise is effective because it shifts your focus from distracting thoughts to the present moment. As your mind concentrates on your breath:
- Your nervous system relaxes.
- Your body becomes more relaxed.
- Your mind slows down.
The Power of Mindfulness
You don't need to fight your thoughts. Simply focus on your breath and let your mind observe quietly. With practice, you'll find that sleep comes more easily. Try this technique tonight and see how focusing on your breath can bring you peace and rest.
Clinical psychologist.
Aneeqa shah.