Many people have difficulty in having sound sleep. Though this is a common feature which may be or may not be a symptom for any physical disorder, it needs to be treated well. Sound sleep is essential for normal functioning of body and in its absence, our productivity declines. It is observed that a decreased level of melatonin in the brain is one of the reasons why people are unable to sleep properly. However, stress, depression or a deficiency in magnesium or iron could be other factors that cause insomnia.

Insomnia not only makes one irritable and restless, but it leads to a feeling of tiredness with little or no energy left and brings in series of ailments disrupting the entire body system.

There are various alternative cures available to treat this problem. These are natural remedies with no side effects and acts just in the right way. Though these techniques may not immediate impact, they are sure to improve the condition with due course of time.

Kriya Yoga: One of the best ways to ensure proper sleep is through Yoga. Kriya Yoga, a popular form of yogic meditation, is an effective remedy particularly for stress-induced insomnia. Apart from getting rid of any obstructions involving mind and body, this form of meditation brings in calmness and controls mind and body. Researchers reported that patients with insomnia showed improvement in quality of sleep, total sleep time, sleep latency, total wake time, sleep efficiency, and other such parameters after practicing this form of meditation.

The Spinal Roll: Popularly known as 'rocking exercise', it is known to strengthen the vertebrae, keeping it youthful and flexible. It is extremely helpful for people suffering from insomnia, and also helps in awakening from a state of drowsiness that insomniacs face when waking up every morning. Once the patient has performed this exercise for few days, he can combine this with deep breathing exercises for more benefit.

Yoga Nidra: Also known as the 'sleep of the yogis', Yoga Nidra is an ancient practice of consciously relaxing the body, allowing it to remove stress and relax completely. Apart from helping in complete relaxation, it regulates the breathing process, as it restores balance in the body's energy centers and brings in harmony.

Few other simple stretches done on daily basis, such as Standing Stretches, Whole Body Stretches, Gentle Swings, can all help ensure that a moment invested on yoga is, after-all, that much less time taken for falling asleep.

Herbs: Lavender, Neroli, chamomile, valerian, are some of the essential oils or herbs that can be massaged or burnt in diffusers, or served as tea, as they are known to promote tranquility, thereby reducing stress levels. A cup of chamomile tea, in particular, is recommended an hour before bed time, as it is a wonderful tranquilizer for stress and anxiety induced insomnia. Valerian is another herb that is commonly used to treat stress and insomnia, and can be consumed as capsules or as tea.

Honey: It has sleep inducing effect and is very effective for treating insomnia. You can take it either with water or add it in your tea.

A few drops of lavender oil can be added to the pillow at bedtime, as it’s calming and pleasantness will render a relaxing effect.

Flowers and Seeds:The seeds are known for their medicinal value and works as a sedative as they relax the senses.. They are used in treating insomnia, anxiety and nervousness and contain Vitamin A, B, and C. One can take these as fresh or dried seeds, capsules, oils and or as extracts.

All parts of the Passion Flower plant bear medicinal value, as the narcotic properties of the flower help in relieving stress and inducing sleep. It can be used as tea, or in the capsule form or in combination with other herbs.

Healing Crystals:If well-cleansed and energized, they can be placed by the bedside or under the pillow. These ideal soothing stones, including amethyst, agate, blue lace, chrysopase and green tourmaline, help in relieving anxiety, improving relaxation.

Healing Colours: Choose soothing pastel shades for bed linen and walls, as they bring in relaxation to the mind. Such colours, including pink, green, mauve, peach, light green and sky blue are colours that resonate at a higher level, bringing in energies into balance.

Acupunture: Acupuncture has been traditionally used by Chinese practitioners in treating insomnia. The procedure involves planting of needles on the skin at specific acupuncture points. This is considered a good method to cure insomnia.

Other relaxation techniques: Meditation is a simple, but effective technique in curing insomnia. It is an age-old way of calming the mind, relaxing the body, and allowing it to unwind, thereby helping with a better night's rest after a stressful day.

Doctors all over the world recommend 40 minutes of daily physical exercise that can be in the form of swimming, cycling, dancing, aerobics etc. If this is followed religiously, one can never suffer from insomnia.

It is also suggested that one should try to maintain the regular sleep pattern, adhering to a regular sleep and wake up time, listening to soft music, reading an interesting book, cutting back on caffeine, just before bed time, are other tips to be taken care of.