Getting to sleep

A good night's sleep is critical to your good health, so what can you do to make it happen?

A good bed * We don't always realize how bad our old bed is until we get a new one. If your mattress is more than 10 years old, consider a new one.

A good pillow * There are different styles of pillows for the different ways we sleep. Get two (or even three) different pillows, and switch them up (even during the night). And get new ones every couple of years. They get buggy (and you don't want to know any more than that).

Clean, fresh linens * We're hearing good things about bamboo sheets – especially if you're dealing with night sweats. The bamboo fibers breathe better.

Room temperature * If it's too hot or too cold, you won't sleep well. Use a fan or an extra blanket when you need it. Fresh air is good, but not always practical (when it's -20F at night, you can't have the windows open! No matter what health guru tells you to do it!).

Stretch your body * Slow, gentle stretches before bed will help work out the kinks of standing in the kitchen or sitting in the living room… or sitting in the driver's seat.

Clear your mind * Look at your calendar for the next day and do what you can to prepare – set out your clothes, pack lunches, get breakfast together, sign permission slips, find instruments and gym shoes, pack your gym bag, etc. Write out anything that's bothering you. Make a gratitude list. Kiss and hug your loved ones. Say your prayers.

Here's some Celtic meditation music that helps us relax before bed. Use it to accompany an evening gratitude meditation, or breathing exercises, or gentle stretches, or prayers.

 

//www.marilu.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/03 Aran Boat Song.mp3

Aran Boat Song, Áine Minogue on Sanctuary