[pct-l] sleep on the trail

["Scott Conover" <scottconover@hotmail.com>]

Howdy all,
     A few weeks back somebody posted a blurb on getting enough sleep
while on hiking trips so I thought I'd share a few of my tips.  I'm
a light sleeper myself and prone to short bouts of insomnia and have
had to come up with ways to combat this problem while operating in
the great outdoors.
     The problem of getting enough quality sleep came to a real head
during my 1994 PCT thru-hike, especially while at high elevations.
The problem threatened to derail my thru-hike several times and even
now I wonder how I managed.  There were days that I did not have much
energy but after a little over five months made it to Canada.
     Since my 1994 hike I have made a few changes as well as discov-
eries.  I take a "sleep-aid" Melatonin now and it helps.  Before long
hikes I start simulating my outdoor sleeping conditions as close as
possible including earlier bedtimes and rising times.  This has been
difficult for me as I usually work a swing shift in the winter months.
Another thing to consider is wether anxiety is playing a part in the
sleeping problem.  Exercises or techniques in how to relax and not
stay awake thinking about all sorts of things is recommended.
     I've taken to sleeping regularily on an old Therm-a-Rest and
find it quite comfortable now.  As I am quite familiar with distance
hiking at least on the PCT, my anxiety level is pretty darn low.  So
on my recent hikes I have experienced few problems attaining a decent
night's sleep.
SCOTT <scottconover@hotmail.com>
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