We’ve all been there. We just can’t fall asleep. Our minds wander, stress creeps in, and then we can’t sleep. Sleep is very important to our health. When we sleep, our bodies rest. It’s in rest that our bodies repair themselves from the day. We aren’t awake to tell our body, “Do this, do that.” Sleep helps our bodies recover from the busy day we had. 

Rest is important but so is quality sleep. It’s great to sleep an hour but it’s even better to have a deep REM sleep for an hour. REM sleep is when our body reaches the perfect deep sleep to do its best healing. Below are a few ways for you to try to help you get quality sleep:

• Go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning. (Yes, even on the weekends!)
• Avoid using electronic devices with screens 30-60 minutes before bed – cell phones, kindles, laptops, TV.  (Try reading a real book!)
• Keep to a regular bedtime routine.
• Keep your bedroom at a cooler temperature (60-68 degrees).
• Avoid eating large meals before bedtime. 
• Limit afternoon and evening caffeine.
• Get 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
• Invest in black-out curtains to keep the sunlight out.
• Use a sleep sound system like a rainstorm or ocean waves to help you sleep.
• Keep a gratitude journal and write in it each night 3 things you are thankful for from the day.
• Use calming essential oils like lavender spritzed on your pillow or in a diffuser to help relax you.