For those who have trouble getting a good night’s rest, the bedroom becomes a battlefield. Finding the best way to overcome sleeplessness is of utmost concern. Many turn to soothing music to lull them to sleep. Others search for the most comfortable mattress and pillows to join them in their slumber. Some resort to meditation and forego alcohol, cigarettes, and heavy meals in the hope of a peaceful rest.

1. lisamariecannon
lisamariecannon
https://lisamariecannon.livejournal.com/
2015-12-29 17:42:00
Can Your Pets
Help You Sleep
Better?
For those who have trouble getting a good night’s rest, the
bedroom becomes a battlefield. Finding the best way to overcome
sleeplessness is of utmost concern. Many turn to soothing music
to lull them to sleep. Others search for the most comfortable
mattress and pillows to join them in their slumber. Some resort to
meditation and forego alcohol, cigarettes, and heavy meals in the
hope of a peaceful rest.
Image source: med-health.net (http://www.med-
health.net/images/10421156/Sleep_Problems_with_COPD.jpg)
Despite these tactics, many still fail to get the required number of
hours at night to feel energized in the morning. In fact,
sleeplessness has become a public health problem, with sleep
insufficiency tied to cases of motor vehicle crashes, industrial
disasters, and medical and other occupational errors, according to
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
But a new study
(http://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-
6196%2815%2900674-6/abstract) addresses such concern.
Researchers from the Center for Sleep Medicine at the Mayo
Cli i i A i f d th t l h ddl ith th i t t

2. TAGS: sleep hygiene sleeping habits sleeping with pets sleeplessness
Clinic in Arizona found that people who cuddle with their pets get
a better night’s rest.
Researchers surveyed 150 patients at the Center for Sleep
Medicine, of whom 74 reported owning, at least, one pet, usually
dogs and cats. The researchers gathered various information
regarding the patients’ sleeping habits, including whether they
allow their pet to sleep in the bedroom and on the bed and
whether their pet disrupts their sleep.
Image source: telegraph.co.uk
(http://www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/Pets/28aug/sleeping-with-
pets-large.jpg)
The survey revealed that 56 percent of the pet owners allowed
their pets in their bedroom or on the bed during sleep time.
Moreover, 41 percent of these pet owners perceived their pets as
unobtrusive or even beneficial to their sleep, noting that their
presence provides security, companionship, or relaxation.
Although the researchers noted some limitations to their study,
the findings can help healthcare professionals counsel patients
with sleep concerns in finding solutions, including considering the
presence of companion animals in their sleep environment.
Dr. Lisa Marie Cannon
(http://www.slideshare.net/lisamariecannon) is an internist whose
area of expertise includes sleep medicine. Visit this blog
(https://drlisamariecannon.wordpress.com/) for additional articles
on various sleep disorders and their treatment.