Obviously this is not an ideal situation, so how can you ensure that you get a good night’s sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the new day? Here are a few good tips to help you.

It is important to try to mentally unwind before going to bed. An overactive mind is one of the primary causes of poor sleep. Try to carry out a low-stress activity  30 minutes to an hour before you retire for the night. Examples of such activities are reading and listening to relaxing music.

A relaxed body will lead to a relaxed mind. Two of the best ways that you can relax your body are to engage in meditation or take a warm bath.

If you are prone to sleep problems it is particularly important that you adhere to a regular sleep routine, going to sleep at the same time every night and getting up at the same time every morning. Yes, this includes weekends.

If you take a nap during the day try cutting it out. You only need a fixed amount of sleep during any 24 hour period.

Your bedroom should be quiet and dark. If you cannot block out all noise and light you might want to invest in some good quality ear plugs and a sleep mask. It is also important that your bedroom temperature is comfortable.

If, after trying these tips, you still have difficulty sleeping, then you should consult your doctor to ensure that there is not an underlying medical problem that is responsible for your poor sleep pattern.

The use  of prescription sleeping pills is on the rise. And these medications carry their own risks: drug carryover into the daytime leading to drowsiness, psychological dependence, physical side effects including anxiety and memory problems, and potential drug interactions. And their long-term use is controversial.

Although sometimes prescription sleep aids are necessary, there are many other simple and easy-to-implement strategies to help sleep better:

1. Don’t engage in mentally stimulating activities prior to bedtime.

2. Keep your bedroom as dark as possible - this helps regulate the hormone .

3. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, especially within 6 hours of bedtime.

4. Eat a light snack before bed, preferably one with protein.

5. Exercise daily.

6.  Keep a regular schedule of sleeping and waking.

7. Have yourself checked for depression - it is a common cause of insomnia.

8.  Don’t take naps during the day.

9. Stop all  fluids 2 hours before bedtime to reduce your chance of having.
to get up to go to the bathroom.

National Sleep Foundation poll found that 14 million people reported actually falling asleep at the wheel during the last year.
If you have been having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor about your condition
and your options.  Besides depression, many other potentially serious health disorders may be causing your sleeping difficulties. Don’t ignore this debt until it becomes too late to repay.

Cheers and God Bless

Annie Oakley

http://ihid.us?i=7kr

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