Short on shuteye? Try the following techniques
from the National Sleep Foundation (
www.sleepfoundation.org) to get proper rest.
"
Stay on schedule. Keep your body’s circadian
clock set by going to sleep and waking at the same times every day.
"
Cultivate soothing habits at bedtime. A
relaxing nightly routine a long soak in the tub, snuggling up with
a good book or listening to classical music will get you snoozing
faster.
"
Create a sleep-friendly environment. A
quiet, dark, cool and distraction-free space is ideal for sleep.
Eye shades, fans, humidifiers and ear plugs can help make a room
slumber-worthy.
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Don’t eat or drink right before sleeping.
Spicy foods can cause heartburn, and too many liquids can send you
out of bed to the bathroom during the night.
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Avoid caffeine and other stimulants before
bedtime.
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Exercise regularly. Staying fit is great for
sound sleeping.
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Avoid cigarettes and other forms of tobacco.
Nicotine is a stimulant and might even cause nightmares.
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Avoid alcohol before bedtime. Alcohol
disrupts sleep and causes nighttime restlessness.