Sleeping with a stoma does take some getting used to, but with the right routine, you can enjoy a restful night. Here’s how I make my nights more comfortable.
Nighttime routine for comfort
- Hot shower: Before heading to bed, I make sure to take a nice, hot shower. This helps relax my muscles, easing any tension from the day, and it also works to lower my cortisol levels, preparing me for a restful night’s sleep.
- Empty your stoma bag: I always empty my stoma bag before bed. During this time, I shave around the stoma and apply Respond’s Guard Barrier Cream, which contains lavender and aloe vera to soothe and moisturise my skin. This helps prevent leaks and makes sleeping more comfortable.
- Preparing my supplies: Before bed, I ensure all my necessary supplies are nearby in a Respond washbag. I keep a separate washbag in the bathroom from the one I take with me when I’m out. I make sure to stock each washbag with stoma bags, wipes, and other essentials I might need each night.
- Wear comfortable clothing: I wear loose-fitting pajamas that don’t press against my stoma. I always choose soft, breathable fabrics to stay comfortable both night and day.
- Herbal tea: I love a cup of herbal tea, particularly blends with valerian root or chamomile tea. These ingredients are known for their calming properties and help me relax after a long day.
- Switching off from technology: I’m very mindful of the amount of time I use my phone or watch television, especially before going to bed. Reading a book helps relax my mind and signals to my body that it’s time to wind down.
- Essential oils: I use my own mix of essential oils with lavender, chamomile, and cedarwood as a mist to spray on my pillow and duvet. This helps me drift off and get a good night’s rest.
I’ve also found that choosing the right pillow and mattress for your sleeping position can greatly improve your sleep quality. For instance, I sleep on my side, therefore, a natural goose down and feather pillow paired with a medium tension mattress is ideal.
Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day has had a positive impact on my health. My body’s circadian rhythm dictates that I start to fall asleep around 11 pm and wake up around 8 am. It takes time to build this habit, but I have noticed that after a week of going to bed at the same time, it has improved my quality of sleep.
In conclusion, sleep is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health. It plays a vital role in healing, memory consolidation, and overall well-being. By following the tips in this article, you can improve your sleep quality and enjoy the benefits of better rest. Prioritising sleep is an investment in one’s health and can significantly improve one’s quality of life.
