10 Tips for Better Sleep

Feeling crabby lately? It could be you aren’t getting enough sleep. Work, household responsibilities and child care can make sleep difficult to come by. You may not be able to control or eliminate all of the factors that interfere with your sleep, but you can create an environment and adopt habits that encourage a more restful night. Try these suggestions if you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep:

1. Go to bed and get up at about the same time every day, even on the weekends. 2. Don’t eat or drink large amounts before bedtime. 3. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol in the evening. 4. Exercise regularly. 5. Make your bedroom cool, dark, quiet and comfortable. 6. Sleep primarily at night. 7. Choose a comfortable mattress and pillow. 8. Start a relaxing bedtime routine. 9. Go to bed when you’re tired and turn out the lights. 10. Turn off the TV. Don’t try to fall asleep with the TV on.

If you’re having problems sleeping more than three times a week for a month’s time, see your doctor. You could have a sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome. Identifying and treating the cause of your sleep disturbance can help get you back on the road to a good night’s sleep.

Adapted from www.mayoclinic.com.