via Firenzesca

I was up very late last night getting tattooed, and a, subsequently extremely sleepy and a little grumpy. So I thought I’d share some tips from an article I did a while back about how to stay awake or fall asleep, when your body wants to do the opposite. Besides using caffeine or Benadryl, these are the best options I’ve found.

Staying Up

    Chill out: Your body temperature falls when you sleep, so if you make it colder than comfortable, you’re more likely to stay focused on your task.
    Ice ice baby: Similarly, keeping a bowl of ice water and a washcloth to dab on yourself will give you little jolts of energy.
    Sour face: Strong tastes like lemons, sour candy or even beef jerky, will awaken your taste buds and your brain.
    Slip into something uncomfortable: Have a pair of shoes that needs to be stretched? Or those skinny jeans cut off your circulation a little? Wearing them will certainly keep you up, if not limping.
    Lights! Action!: Simulating sunshine or just a really bright light will help you stay on track and ease your eye strain too.

Falling Asleep

    Get Some: But please be safe! And you can always give yourself a little if you’re lonely.
    Bore yourself: Public access television, the dictionary, whatever least interests you is likely to make your thoughts turn to mush and sleep.
    Warm and Cozy: Take a hot bath, shower, or have some herbal tea before you hit the hay.
    Let go of your Worries: If your mind is racing with everything you need to do tomorrow, write them all down and to get them out of your head.
    The same old Routine: Develop a nightly ritual. Listen to the same soothing song every night or turn on a fan if that noise helps.

How do you fight the sandman?

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