Many times we moms try to flaunt our lack of sleep like a badge of honor when in reality it’s a giant neon “HELP ME” sign.

Don’t believe me? The CDC states these comparisons:

Yep, sleep is THAT important. Now that we’re motivated (although possibly utterly exhausted), let’s get to the root of that insomnia issue! We want to give our new baby and the rest of our family the best of ourselves!

Like I have mentioned in previous posts, we are three-part beings (Spirit, Soul & Body) so when we tackle the issue of sleep deprivation we must address it in all three parts of ourselves. Let’s start with our spirits!

Spirit: Is your heart right with God and with others? Are you lying awake thinking of all the people who have wronged you or that you have wronged yourself?

If these questions are leaving a humbling “yes” inside your heart, take the time to pray and ask for forgiveness from God. Then do your best to remedy any bitterness left between you and others. Having a clean heart at the conclusion of each day is essential to getting good rest overnight.

Create in me a pure heart, God, and make my spirit right again.

Psalm 51:10 NCV

Soul: Is my baby still breathing? Is that blanket too close to their nose & mouth? What if they roll into something and suffocate? What if my baby dies from SIDS?

Many times insomnia attacks because we are worried about the safety of our baby. Our minds can race all night long due to each little squeak and sound they make. How do we make them stop? We fill our minds with what the Word of God says and trust that He will take care of our precious child. Remember God created your little blessing and loves them more than you ever could, so purpose to fill your mind with His truth and trust that He will take care of them while you rest.

But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.

Jeremiah 17:7 NIV

Body: What can I do throughout the day to help myself sleep better at night? Should I take sleep medicine?

If you feel that taking an over-the-counter sleep aid or seeking out professional medical help is what you need, then absolutely do it! However, there are lots of non-medicine-related things that can help improve your sleep at night. For the sake of time, I will focus on three of my favorites:

• Get Outside: If you haven’t figured it out by now, I’m a HUGE supporter of outside time. Research has shown that getting sunlight exposure can help regulate your circadian rhythms.
• Get Off Your Phone: Research has also shown that looking at a screen right before bed can cause your brain to be on alert and therefore less relaxed. Do yourself a favor and wind your mind down by putting away the screens 30 min. prior to bedtime.
• Say “Goodbye” to caffeine: I know this is common sense, but hard. Until your sleep becomes more regulated, ditch the coffee!

Reflection Time:

If you’re struggling with insomnia, know that God wants to help you overcome it and has left a promise in His word for you about it. Like a loving mother cares for her child, your Heavenly Father cares for you (and your sleep) too.

When you lie down, you will not be afraid;
    when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.

Proverbs 3:24 NIV

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For more on sleep/rest/insomnia, check out my post on “Rest” and my post on “Getting Outside” here.

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