Kelly’s Korner – Tips For Better Sleep

Have you been extra tired lately?  With the changing season, and time change, many of us are feeling more lethargic than we have in a long time. Here are some tips to getting a good nights sleep.

KEEP A SLEEP SCHEDULE

My kids hate that I make this suggestion, especially on weekends. There's no better way to regulate your sleep than to keep yourself on a sleep schedule.  Rise each day at approximately the same time, even on your days off, and try to lay down at the same time each night.

THE 15 MINUTE WAKE UP CALL

Many people can't fall asleep immediately...so they say that getting up and either taking a warm bath, or possibly reading for a few minutes, and then laying back down, will help you get to sleep faster.

CREATE THE PERFECT SLEEPING ENVIRONMENT

Most often, the best place to sleep is a cool, dark and quiet room. Shutting off televisions, ipods, ipads, computers and phones is key. Keeping those devices away from your bed is also important. If you are someone who always sleeps with the light or tv on, then try to eliminate one at a time, until you can sleep without them.

LIMIT YOUR DAYTIME NAPPING

I'm SO guilty of taking a nap when I get home from work. I always feel better when I choose exercise over sleeping. I also sleep better at night. If you have to lay down, try to limit your nap to 10 to 30 minutes.

GET PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

You will sleep better if you've taken your body for a walk....went to a gym...whatever it is that you enjoy, your body will rest better if you've given it a good workout.  Timing of your exercise is important, so try to make sure you get exercise in early enough in the day that it won't keep you from falling asleep at night.