Fast Facts on Insomia

Don't you just love to snuggle into your bed with clean, fresh smelling sheets and a nice fluffy pillow and comforter? How you could not sleep in that environment?

Unfortunately, there are millions of people out there who just can't fall asleep, or they may fall asleep but end up waking up in the middle of the night unable to return to slumber. I sleep with someone who manages to fall asleep in all of 20 seconds, but lays awake most nights from 1am to 3am, only to fall back to sleep for the last hour before he needs to get up!

Many times insomnia can be blamed on tension, anxiety, switching medications or loud noise. But alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea, and even chocolate can contribute to insomnia. Women may start having issues with insomnia at the onset of menopause. And if you're having trouble with insomnia, accompanied by feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness you may be seeing signs of depression (visit your doctor!).

Lack of sleep can have a multitude of affects on your health. For one, it promotes weight gain - and who wants that?!! Have you ever noticed that when you don't sleep well you crave sugar and fat? Not to mention you're too tired to focus at work or even think about exercise.

So what do you do? Here are a few tips:

1) Establish a sleep routine that includes going to bed at the same time each night; exercise regularly but not too close to bedtime; and keep your bedroom dark and cool.

2) Don't watch TV in bed! Television tends to be more of a stimulant than a relaxant.

3) Consider cutting out caffeinated beverages after late afternoon (i.e. soda, coffee, tea).

4) Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can contribute to issues like sleep apnea which causes disruptive sleep.

5) Take medications only as prescribed by your doctor. And be sure to visit your doctor if your insomnia is persistent to rule out sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease or depression. Each requires medical care.

Now's the time to tidy up your room, wash the sheets, and settle in for a good night's sleep......aaaaahhhhh!