According to a recent report published in The Lancet, roughly one-quarter of American adults are not happy with their nightly sleeping patterns, while up to 10 percent may suffer from “full-fledged insomnia”. So, chances are your holiday gift shopping list includes at least one or two insomniacs. Here are some gift ideas for friends and family members who struggle to get a good night’s rest.
Marpac Dohm-NSF Sound Conditioner
Although it could be mistaken for a food dehydrator, this innovative machine produces a torrent of white noise that drowns out most sounds and noises regardless of frequency or pitch. The tone and volume are adjustable, and the machine is equipped with rubber feet that help improve the sound quality. The original model is available for $59.99, while other variations are also available at prices ranging from $44.95 to $59.99.
Herbal Sleep Aids
Natural supplements are a great alternative for insomniacs who would rather not resort to prescription meds. According to WebMD, there are three leading supplements. Valerian and Chamomile are herbal remedies that have been used for thousands of years; although their soporific effects have yet to be scientifically proven, doctors will often recommend them to insomniacs and people with sleep-related issues. Melatonin, on the other hand, is a hormone that is thought to influence your circadian rhythm. Valerian, Chamomile, and Melatonin are all available as synthetic supplements, but most doctors urge insomniac patients to exclusively use one of the three.
Insomnia Sleep Band
Most people who struggle with sleep-related issues will do anything to relieve their problems, and if the solution doesn’t involve medication, then all the better. This wristband from Dr. Leonard’s uses acupressure to relax the body and improve restfulness throughout the night. And at $5.99 apiece, these babies make great stocking stuffers.
Mindfold
Unlike other sleep masks that work best when your eyes are closed, the Mindfold is outfitted with high-density foam padding with cut-outs that provide complete darkness–even if the wearer’s eyes are wide open. The mask also has a Velcro strap to provide the optimal level of comfort. This product is available for $19.50.
SleepPhones Audio Headband Sleep System
Listening to music during bedtime can definitely improve one’s restfulness, but most headphones are too bulky to wear while sleeping and ear buds can cause discomfort if worn for too long. Enter this listening device from SleepPhones, which features high-quality speakers wrapped in a soft, fleece band. This sleep system is available for $39.95; a wireless model is also available for $99.95.
Really Comfortable Bedding
There are only so many hours in the night and when sleep is already deprived, those remaining hours are that much more precious. Whether awake or asleep in those few hours, the hope is that you can help make them more comfortable. Afterall, it may not possible to give the gift of sleep – that’s in our genetics. But it is possible to give the gift of good, or at least, comfortable, sleep.
