I just read a tip in Hints from Heloise about sleeplessness and I wanted to add a couple of things that I just found in one of my PREVENTION magazines, and a few tips of my own. BTY, over 70% of people suffer sleeplessness at least two nights a week.

Heloise mentions sleeping in a cool room and that is a good tip. I might add to that the importance of wearing nightwear in which you are comfortable. Don’t get tangled up in your nightgown or have the waist be too tight on your PJ bottoms-that type of thing. Also,don’t use covers that are too heavy. Look at total comfort-mattress, sleepwear, bedding, etc. Be sure you are not uncomfortable in any way.

They say keep away from screens for at least an hour before bed time and that is good advice. I like to read a magazine. I am a BIG magazine fan. I read and have a cup of decaff tea before bed.

If you are worried, in a high stress situation, or you are what I call carrying the day’s burdens around with you try saying a prayer when you get into bed. If you do not pray regularly, give it a try. It can really free up your feelings of anxiety and let you relax. If you chose not to pray, try 5 minutes of yoga/meditation or soft music. DO NOT review the days events in your mind or you will tend to do it over and over!

Finally, try to visualize yourself as being asleep. Just think of the word sleep as you close your eyes and breathe deeply. Even count out your breaths as you inhale and exhale.

Try some of these tips, and let me know how it works.