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Simple ways to help fall asleep

Are there times when your absolutely exhausted yet you still can’t fall asleep – the days events stream through your mind on an endless (annoying) loop. Then you begin to think about falling asleep (oh the frustration) which makes you not fall asleep. But here are a few rather unique ways of finally drifting off into that tranquil world of dreaming.
Make your bed. Whoa, flashback to childhood or what? But this little trick actually seems to help ensure a good night's sleep. A recent study found that people who make their beds every day are 19% more likely to report sleeping soundly. Changing your sheets and sleeping on comfy mattresses and pillows seem to help, too. All of this makes complete sense to me--is there anything more "ahhh" then pulling back the covers and sliding into your cool, clean sheets? (I'm yawning just writing about it!)

Get chilly. Sleep scientists say that the ideal sleeping temperature is about 65 degrees--your body needs a slight drop of temperature in order to induce sleep. (Too-hot or too-cold will wake you up, so experiment with the thermostat to find the right temp for you.)

Curl your toes. Clench your tootsies for a count of seven, and then repeat with your other muscles, slowly moving up to your neck.

Turn off your smart phone, iPad and laptop. This other one is not so strange, but it's definitely simple (and so good to keep in mind--especially if you're like me, and end up playing "Angry Birds" or “fruit Ninja” while waiting to fall asleep!) Do this one hour before bedtime, otherwise the blue light from the devices might actually trick your body into thinking its daytime--exactly the opposite of what you want!

Check out how to relax with yoga