Most of us have experienced bouts of insomnia that make it difficult to get up in the morning. But for some people, waking up throughout the night is a continuous problem. Here are a few suggestions for improving your sleep and giving yourself more energy in the morning:

1. Shut off all electronics at least one hour before bed. Studies have shown that electronics keep the mind active longer than other forms of mental stimulation.
2. Do a sleep hygiene assessment on your home.  Do you have blackout drapes?  Are all LED and other small lights turned off or covered? Do you have a source of white noise, like a fan? Is your pillow and bedding comfortable? Do you need a new mattress?
   

   First snow day of 2017

3. Exercise vigorously during the day, but not within two hours of bedtime. Take a walk after dinner to help with digestion, which can also keep you somewhat awake.
4. Don’t load up on carbohydrates at or after dinner. Digesting carbohydrates tends to spike the energy in your body.
5. Sit up and read a book in bed until you start to feel sleepy.  Don’t push past the sleepiness. Instead, put the book down and turn off the light.