How to Get a Better Night's Sleep

Sleep is so extremely important. Let me say it again in case the people in the back didn't hear: sleep is so extremely important. In order to live healthy lives, it is so, so vital to get enough sleep and a thorough rest every night. However, for some of us, falling asleep at night can be a huge challenge. At least for me, I can be exhausted right up until it's time to go to sleep then my brain decides to think of a million things that keep me awake instead. Ugh. To help me when situations like this arise, I have accumulated little tricks and tips to help you get an amazing sleep.

• Keep the room temperature cool. Not so cold that you shiver, but cold enough that wrapping up in a cozy blanket is possible. Also, try to do this sustainably (i.e., instead of blasting AC, open a window or use an energy efficient fan).
• Take a warm bath/shower before bed. Of course you don't need to do this every night unless you're extremely filthy (we as an western culture shower far more than we need--not only does it waste water but it's not good for us... more about this in a future blog post). Having your body temperature rise while in the warm shower then quickly falling after you get out is super helpful in tiring out your body and prepping it for bed.
• Make sure the room is dark. If you need a nightlight, that is of course fine, however sleeping in maximum darkness is often the best. Close your blinds/curtains or get a sleeping mask. Whatever works best for you! 
• Sleep in complete silence or listen to white noise. I personally like to sleep to the sounds of nature but some people sleep best in complete silence. Experiment with what works best for you. 
• Drink a calming tea (without caffeine) 30 minutes before bed. My favorite is a chamomile or a lavender tea. Celestial Seasoning's Sleepytime teas are also marvelous.
• Turn off all electronic devices at least an hour before bed. Bright lights/screens make it harder for the brain to calm down and prepare itself for sleep. Spend your last minutes before sleep reading or journaling to help wind down.
• Do gentle yoga poses/stretches before bed. These are some of my favorites:
• Yoga With Adrienne: Intro to Yin Yoga
• Yoga With Adrienne: Yoga for Bedtime
• BrettLarkinYoga: Beginner Bedtime Yoga Sequence
• Skip any caffeine within 10 hours before sleep. Caffeine makes falling asleep super difficult. I personally try to avoid any caffeine ever.
• Avoid eating anything within 3 hours before sleep. A drop in blood sugar makes us more tired and readier for bed.
• Write down any thoughts that are keeping you awake. You can deal with them tomorrow.
• When all else fails, count backwards from 100. Or count boring things like how many socks you think are in your sock drawer. Works like a charm.