How to get a better night's sleep

We tend to think of sleep as a time when the mind and body shut down. Sleep is one of the best things you can do for your body. Alongside drinking plenty of water and eating a proper diet - it might just be one of the most important things you need to stay healthy.

But after a long day at work, with the family, and even at the gym - it can be hard to turn off your brain and catch the zzz's you need.

Health Tips How to sleep better

1. Listen to relaxing music or a bedtime story 

Listening to one of your favorite stories, or relaxing slow or classic music can distract your brain from the stresses of the day, and help wind you down into a good sleep.

2. Keep a consistent sleep schedule

Go to bed and get up at the same time every day, even on weekends, holidays and days off. Being consistent with your sleep reinforces your body's sleep-wake cycle and helps promote better sleep at night.

3. Practice a bedtime routine

Create a ritual that indicates to your body that it's time to wind down. This might include taking  a warm bath or shower , to reading books, or listening to soothing music.  Relaxing activities can promote better sleep.

4. Avoid smoking

Smoking can prevent quality sleep – a lack of sleep can, turn, cause cognitive decline, mood disorders, depression and anxiety.

5. Exercise at appropriate times 

Working out is an essential part of getting, and staying healthy. Infact, working out improves the length, and quality of your sleep. But Preventionsays working out also elevates your body temperature, and that inhibits your body's ability to shut down, and get some shut eye.

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6. Watch what you're ingesting 

Caffeine and alcohol can really mess up your sleep cycle. Caffeine keeps you awake and while alcohol might make you feel sleepy at first,  it can disrupt your sleep later in the middle of the night.

Source: remedydaily