If You Have Trouble Falling Asleep Here's What You Should Be Doing Every Day ...

I’m groaning too, but there’s a good reason for this. Research shows that rising at the same time every day sets your internal clock so that you feel awake when you get up and are sleepy when it’s time to go to sleep. This time frame isn’t a magical one, but is a pretty good target for the average person with a traditional work schedule. Adjust as needed to fit your needs.

Your strongest urge in the morning is probably the one that drives you to the coffee maker as soon as you get up. That’s a bad idea for building a consistent sleep pattern, say the experts. Why? Because your body is working to produce the hormone cortisol when you get up and mixing higher levels with caffeine can wreak havoc on your sleep/wake cycle. Wait for about 2 hours, then pour yourself a mug of joe.

You need some healthy fats during the day because they have been linked to longer sleep patterns. Omega-3 fatty acids are your best choice, so add some canola-oil based dressing to your salad. You can also toss in some avocado or grilled salmon. Walnuts are another great choice. That salad is going to pay off when you hit the sack tonight!

If your boss catches, you present the evidence that shows that women who keep up with friends and family during the day are less stressed. It also ensures that you sleep well tonight because it cuts daytime stress so you can relax at the end of the day. Return personal emails, tweet a picture of your tasty lunch or text your best friend. Just don’t use office time if it isn’t allowed. Wait for your next break.

I know, I know. You’ve barely gotten home from work and now it’s time to put the wineglass away! While alcohol can make you fall asleep, it interferes with good sleep patterns, leaving you wide eyed and restless later in the night. Stop drinking around 3 hours before you go to bed and you’ll be doing your circadian rhythm a huge favor.

Here’s an idea I think you can get behind! Don’t be afraid of carbs at dinner. Despite the hype, they aren’t going to cause you to balloon up while you sleep. In fact, those carbs promote sleepiness, helping you reach slumbering nirvana in a few hours. Whole wheat pasta is your best bet.

Research shows that kiwi contains serotonin, a brain hormone that is said to help you sleep better and maintain a regular sleep/wake cycle. A kiwi is also the right snack because it won’t fill you up so full that you can’t sleep.

Are you going to try any of these steps today? What other tips do you have for good sleep tonight?