Tips for a Good Night's Rest

With the busy holiday season approaching, it’s easy to fall off the good sleep wagon. So to help consumers get reacquainted with a good night’s rest, the Better Sleep Council (BSC) recently released a number of tips and easy steps to improve how Americans sleep on its website: http://www.bettersleep.org.

1. Maintain a regular bed and wake time schedule, including weekends.

2. Establish a regular, relaxing bed time routine such as soaking in a hot bath or hot tub and then reading a book or listening to soothing music.

3. Create a sleep-conducive environment that is dark, quiet, comfortable and cool.

4. Sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillows.

5. Use the bedroom only for sleep and sex. It is best to take work materials, computers and televisions out of the sleep environment.

6. Finish eating at least two or three hours before your regular bedtime.

7. Exercise regularly. It is best to complete your workout at least a few hours before bedtime.

8. Avoid nicotine (e.g. cigarettes, tobacco products). Used close to bedtime, it can lead to poor sleep.

9. Avoid caffeine (e.g. coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate) close to bedtime. It can keep you awake.

10. Avoid alcohol close to bedtime. It can lead to disrupted sleep later in the night.

Mike and I have some further suggestions:
Don't have an argument with your spouse before turning in.
Keep your work out of your head when you head to bed.
No TVs in the bedroom.

Bev & Mike
Landfair Furniture + Design Gallery