Sleep Hygiene--How to Do It

by: SusanHarris
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Word Count: 275

If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, your habits could be to blame.

Perhaps all you need to change is some habits you may have picked up. Changing habits for good sleep is called sleep hygiene these days. Here are some habits to look at:

*Eliminating caffeine or chocolate. Try this for a few days. The effect of these two on your body can change over time. Taking caffeine or chocolate even in the morning may be able to affect your night-time sleep.

*Exercising in the evening. Exercise for your recommended 30 minutes can get your heart rate up and can keep you awake. Try exercising before 6 p.m.

*Sugar late in the day. Are you drinking or eating sweets late in the day? Sugar can be a stimulant, and as such can rev you up so you can't sleep. Beware of natural sugar, too, such as the sugar in orange juice.

*Stimulating conversations. Are you getting all worked up about something after supper? You can save stimulating conversations for the next day. These can keep you awake because they fill your system with stimulating hormones.

*Creative thinking. Projects worked on in the evening can get your mind going... and going... and going.

So what SHOULD you do for good sleep habits?

*In the evening, keep your activities dull and quiet. Do them calmly.

*If you read near bedtime, read news magazines or other items that have no exciting story line.

*If you want to watch TV or video, watch a documentary rather than a thriller or a whodunit.

So, now you have plenty of tips for good sleep hygiene. Try them out. They could be just what you are looking for.

About the Author

If you want some suggestions for an insomnia cure, you can try adjusting your habits in favor of good sleep hygiene. You are seeking an insomnia remedy, but a change of routine may cost you less than other possibilities!  

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