How to Sleep Well

Our lifestyle gets busier and busier, and one of the unfortunate side effects of that is often disruption of normal sleep patterns which are biologically programmed.

The first step towards better sleep is diagnosis of the problem.

However, there are some simple rules that can be followed to maintain what we call "sleep hygiene".

For example:

Go to bed and wake up at a regular time
Minimize any stimulating activity within one hour of the time when you want to be asleep
Use your bedroom only for sleep, sex, and times of illness
People often have like having a "nap" in the afternoon. This is in line with the changes that occur in our bodies physiologically and a short "siesta" limited to no more than 30 mins is not unreasonable about 3-3.30pm
Establish relaxing pre-sleep rituals such as a warm bath, light bedtime snack, or ten minutes of reading
Exercise regularly, but try not to exercise in the evenings. It is stimulating and may interfere with sleep
Keep a regular schedule for most daily activities - our bodies are wired for regularity and it will help with sleep