Are You Getting Enough ZZZZZs?

What is the state of your sleep hygiene? Fast-paced, highly stimulated lifestyles can lead to poor sleep habits. Many people encounter problems getting the proper amount of sleep. Check out the habits listed below to evaluate your sleep hygiene. Good sleep hygiene is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

• Establish a set bedtime and wake up time – even on your days off.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine and heavy meals 4-6 hours before retiring.
• Exercise regularly, but not right before bed. Regular exercise can help deepen sleep, but strenuous activity 2 hours before bedtime can interfere with sleep.
• Use comfortable bedding and keep the temperature in the bedroom cool and well-ventilated.
• Have a bedtime routine that may include soft music, a warm bath or a few minutes of reading.
• If sleep doesn’t come in 15-30 minutes, get up and go to another room and read until sleepy. Don’t get up and do anything stimulating like office work, housework or watching TV.
• If your mind doesn’t want to turn off, try writing down your worries, concerns, deadlines and plans for the next day.
  
  

Teen Need Their Sleep

Last updated: 2009-04-20