5 Recos for how to get better sleep

1. Small Changes, Big Differences
to Catch Some ZZZs

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Get shady. Breezy linen curtains are beautiful, but they are not sleep-friendly. Hanging
thicker curtains, using blackout shades, or wearing an eye mask can help make sure that
your neighbor turning on the light or a car driving down your street doesn’t disturb you.

3. Resist the urge. It happens to all of us. You’re deep in a slumber, but then something
wakes you up. You think, “Well, since I’m up…” and the next thing you know you’re in the
kitchen making pancakes at 4 a.m. Try installing low-wattage bulbs in nightlights around
the house so you can stay sleepy even if you have to get up for a few minutes.
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4. Turn back time. If you have an illuminated clock next to your bed, dim it to the lowest level and
turn it to face the other side. Not only will the added darkness help with your sleep, but if you
wake up at night and catch a glimpse of the clock, you won’t be able to see that you have two
hours left before your alarm goes off. This way you can fall right back asleep and get the rest
you need without counting down the minutes until you have to get up!
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5. Go on a trial separation. This may sound crazy but…try putting your cell phone
and your computer in a separate room before going to sleep. Separating yourself
from your electronics means no buzzing or blinking throughout the night! How
peaceful does that sound?
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6. Expose yourself: Some researchers say that limited natural light exposure during the
day also affects melatonin levels. If you’re the type to hit the gym before sunrise and
then work until the sun goes down, chances are you’re only getting minimal exposure
to natural light. Try drinking your morning coffee outside under the sun or near a bright
window facing east. Soaking in the sun in the morning will help when you’re trying to
shut down at night!
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