In Pursuit of a Good Night’s Sleep

Never underestimate the value of a good night’s sleep. It is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. There are some practical things you can do to improve your chances of sound sleep. The Better Sleep Council (BSC) is a nonprofit organization supported by the mattress industry. The BSC is devoted to educating the public about the importance of sleep to good health and quality of life. BSC also provides information about the value of the sleep system and sleep environment in pursuit of a good night’s sleep.

• Improving your food selections to include a variety of foods including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and water is a good start. Consuming beverages with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks can make it more difficult to fall asleep. Set an early cutoff time for such beverages.
• Plan time to allow for adequate sleep on a regular basis. Develop a sleep routine. Do the same thing each night just before bedtime.
• A regular exercise program, which includes 30 minutes or more walking most days of the week, improves sleep. Exercising too close to bedtime may disrupt a good night’s sleep. Allow two hours or more to relax after exercise.
• Make sure your mattress and foundation are conducive to restful sleep. Waking up with pain, stiffness or soreness may mean your mattress is no longer meeting your sleep needs.
• Make sure your bedroom is dark. Light is one of the body’s cues to wake up. A dark room is more conducive to sleep, even if you are just taking a nap.
• Noise control is another factor. Loud noises, inside or outside, can disturb sleep. Soft steady sounds are more soothing and they can block out distracting noises.
• The temperature of the sleep environment is also important. According to the research, temperatures between 60 and 65 degrees may offer the most comfort. You decide.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages and smoking just before bedtime.

For more information on selecting a mattress and foundation as well as getting a good night’s sleep, get a free copy of the Better Sleep Council’s “Better Sleep Guide” visit online www.sleepbetter.org or write to the BSC at P.O. Box 19534, Alexandria, VA 22320-0534.

 

Fall 2005
Emerald Ash Borer | Garden Tips | Fall Garden Chores | Fall & Winter Greens, Reds & More | Pumpkin Facts | Hort Shorts | Cybergardening Sites | Did you know? . . | Fall Vegetable Parade of Colors | Health and Household Tips | Lactose Intolerant? Calcium From Plants | Self-medicating and Drug Interactions | In Pursuit of a Good Night’s Sleep

 

 

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