Newly experiencing not finding sleep before or after playing Bridge

Posted by waltraud19 @waltraud19, Dec 26, 2025

I am a passionate bridge player. Often I play Duplicat bridge before ging to bed on the computer. However, I often am not able to sleep after e demanding play. I am trying to find a solution without cancelling playing the Game of Duplicate Bridge, including smaller tournaments, not on national or International Base. I am also a partial caretaker to my husband.

Please does anyone have an experience with this? Thank you

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Could u find a tournament earlier in the day? Do u think this would help or are you really amped up for the entire day?

The best advice I can give you is relaxation techniques. There are a plethora to choose from. Meditation, alone or guided (I used to use an app with many guided meditations, you don’t need another person present. The app I used was narrated by someone who sounded exactly like Sean connery- it was perfect!).; yoga; massage (tell them why you r getting massages, it will help them tailor a session, ); tai chi, something called progressive muscle relaxation ( you can google it. Too much to type); biofeedback - requires a professional

I prefer a cold, dark environment to sleep

Sleep hygiene VERY important . It is the pillar of sleep health https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/sleep-hygiene-simple-practices-for-better-rest

. Avoid screens for at least an hour before bed

There r many alternative therapies to try. Generally, they have not been tested.

Some say showering or a bice warm bath with epson salts and essential oil 1 hour before bed helps

Obviously, no caffeine

There are many many OTC meds and herbal remedies. I’d say, work on the non pill side first as the only remedy that I think is likely beneficial regardless of sleep is magnesium glycinate

Hope this helps 🎄

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I am also a duplicate bridge player and love the game. I often play bridge on BBO in the evening. I always stop playing for about thirty minutes before I go to bed. I don’t look at any electronics for about 30 minutes but just use this time to relax.

I think this would help you. My doctor advised me to do this, and it has worked.

Good luck on trying this and also good luck with your duplicate bridge. Maybe we will be partners some evening 🤔.

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