Getting Some Quality Sleep

We live in very stressful and challenging times. Many people work very hard and then play hard and it leaves little time for the recommended 8 hours of sleep. Some individuals even boast about how they function on very little sleep. These people are living on a survival basis; just trying to make it through the next work day, enjoy some more fun activities and start the whole process again the next day. City dwellers are especially prone to this cycle because they are exposed to ever changing situations and so much stimuli from morning to night.

Here are some suggestions to help increase your quality of sleep:

1. Sleep between the hours of 10:30 pm and 6:30 pm for optimal sleep.
2. Have a regular sleep routine. Try to go through the same steps when you get ready for sleep each night.
3. Avoid grains and sugars before sleep since they increase your blood sugar levels.
4. Sleep in total darkness and turn off all electronic devices in your sleeping area.
5. Avoid such things as watching the news or any such stimulatory media before sleeping. Instead try to read something relaxing or spiritual or reflect on your day.
6. Calm yourself or meditate to mentally prepare yourself for sleep.
7. Avoid drinking large amounts of liquids a few hours before you plan to go to sleep and go to the restroom before you get in bed to reduce the chance of waking up in the middle of the night.