SPRINGFIELD - Is the holiday rush making you tired?
Consider these tips from the Baystate Regional Sleep Program:
1. Set a regular bedtime and wake up schedule.
2. Make your bedroom a quiet, dark environment that is primarily a place for sleeping.
3. Establish relaxing before-bed routines, such as taking a bath or light reading.
4. Develop relaxation techniques, such as quiet meditation or listening to soft music.
5. Avoid stimulants like coffee, tea, and soda at least six hours before bed.
6. Do not smoke, nicotine is a stimulant and can make it difficult to fall asleep.
7. Avoid troubling news right before bed, such as violence on TV or in the newspaper.
8. Exercise regularly and early in the day. This helps keep the body and mind healthy. Avoid vigorous exercise activities right before bed.
9. Don’t nap during the day.
10. Hide the clock so you can’t see the time when you are in bed.
11. Make the room cool or at a temperature conducive for sleeping.
If you are still having trouble sleeping and think you may have a sleep disorder, talk with your doctor. A physician referral is required for a sleep study. For more information about the Baystate Regional Sleep Program, call 413-794-5600 or visit baystatehealth.org/sleep.