Having a nighttime “ritual” that prepares you for sleep is said to be helpful. I would take a long soak in a warm bath with some scented bath beads, which was very relaxing. Turn off the TV (stimulation) and do something to relax, unwind, every single night. The repetition is apparently good for establishing a mind set towards sleep/relaxation.
Warm milk has a soothing effect and can help promote sleep (and the added calcium content can be helpful for our bones). Avoid chocolate, cokes, coffees, teas that contain caffeine or other stimulants. You might be able to get away with drinking them much earlier in the day, but avoid them after dinner.
Understanding that lying there, relaxed, is 75% as restful as actual sleep stopped me from fretting those nights I could not sleep. Studies have shown that relaxation is “almost” as good as sleep for helping us feel rested.
Bobbi — NGDF Online FAcilitator
