Get Some Sleep

If you have insomnia—problems with falling asleep, night waking, or early waking—experiment with these tips. Ask a doctor about using sleep remedies—even supplements and herbs. When consulting a doctor, make sure to tell it like it is, says health educator Valerie Keim. “Don’t say, ‘I’m having a little trouble sleeping.’ Say, ‘I’m a horrid beast. I get three hours of sleep a night, and no one can stand me.’ ”

During the day


• choose a reasonable wake-up time and stick to it
• make sure to exercise
• avoid caffeine after noon

In the evening

• avoid alcohol
• take a hot bath
• listen to relaxation CDs
• avoid using the computer
• don’t watch TV in bed
• do yoga or tai chi
• choose a reasonable bedtime, and stick to it

At night

• only go to bed to sleep or have sex
• set your alarm, and then turn your clock away from you
• don’t allow pets in the bedroom
• keep your house cool

For information, go to www.americaninsomniaassociation.org.

Reader Comments: 
Log In Create an account Post anonymously
Add your comment:
Create an instant account, or please log in if you have an account. Anonymous comments are enabled.
Email address (not displayed publicly)  Password
 
Enter your comments below:
Verification Question:
What is 5 + 7 ?     This is so we know you are a human and not a spam robot.