How to Sleep Better - Tips for Getting a Good Night’s Sleep

Get in sync with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every night. Nap to make up for lost sleep. If you find yourself getting sleepy way before your bedtime, get off the couch and do something mildly stimulating to avoid falling asleep

If you make a consistent effort to relax and unwind before bed, you will sleep easier and more deeply. A peaceful bedtime routine sends a powerful signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down and let go of the day’s stresses.

Make your bedroom more sleep friendly. Keep the noise down, keep your room cool and make sure your bed is comfortable

Reserve your bed for sleeping and sex

If you associate your bed with events like work or errands, it will be harder to wind down at night. Use your bed only for sleep and sex. That way, when you go to bed, your body gets a powerful cue: it’s time to either nod off or be romantic.

Relax before you go to bed:

Breathe deeply, try closing your eyes and taking long deep breaths. Try progressive muscle relaxation, starting with your toes, tense all the muscles as tightly as you can, then completely relax. Visualize a peaceful restful place.

Relaxing bedtime rituals to try

Read a book or magazine by a soft light
Take a warm bath
Listen to soft music
Do some easy stretches
Wind down with a favorite hobby
Listen to books on tape
Make simple preparations for the next day