How to Get More Sleep

All of us usually feel as if we could use a lot more quality sleep, but somehow it's difficult to find the time to squeeze in that extra hour of sleep or to actually enjoy a full night's rest once we've settled in for the night. Read the following steps to learn how you can prepare for and get a restful night's sleep.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Exercise regularly. A good workout early in the day will tire your body out, making it easier to fall asleep at night.
2. Go to bed early. Start your evening routine earlier to ensure that you're getting to bed as early as you can.
3. Take a hot bath right before going to bed. This will relax your body and mind, getting you in the mood to fall asleep.
4. Read a relaxing book before going to bed instead of watching TV, which will actually make it harder for you to fall asleep.
5. Listen to calming music as you're falling asleep. This will help you to relax and to stop thinking stressful thoughts that may have been keeping you awake.
6. Sleep in a dark and quiet room. Use blackout blinds or dark curtains to keep light from seeping into your bedroom throughout the night, or use a sleep mask to cover your eyes. If you hear a lot of noise at night, from traffic for example, use ear plugs so you're not waking up all night.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't eat anything right before you go to bed, especially snacks packed with sugar.
• Avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol for the last few hours before you go to bed.