3. Implement a relaxing routine before bed. Studies have shown that children sleep better when they
have a bedtime routine. Parents should develop a consistent, nightly routine that includes relaxing, calming activities, like reading a story before bed. Whatever your age, it ' s important to turn off your computer or television at least 30 minutes before going to bed. Prepare to go to sleep by doing something relaxing, whether it ' s reading, writing in a journal or taking a warm bath.
4. Add daily exercise to the routine. Many people lead busy lives that are mentally tiring but consist of
little to no physical activity. This can be a recipe for a poor night ' s sleep. Contrary to what you may believe, you don ' t have to do an exhausting workout to sleep better. Even small amounts of routine physical activity may improve your sleep and overall well-being.
Getting enough sleep isn ' t just a matter of feeling well rested and alert; it ' s a necessary component of good health. Sleeping six hours or less per night increases the risk of a stroke, coronary heart disease, diabetes and obesity. Insuf�cient sleep is such a widespread problem that the CDC has named insuf�cient sleep a public health problem.
Therefore, it ' s important to remember that healthy sleep is not a luxury, it ' s a necessity. If you ' re having trouble sleeping, help is available at more than 2,500 sleep disorders centers that are accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. For more information, visit www. aasmnet. org.