Finding my rhythm

Sleep is one of those consistent past times in my life that I have always loved. However, how much is too much and how much is not enough? Those mornings I wake up and feel completely rested leads to a day I feel on top my game. I love those days. However, sometimes I do things that get in the way of a good nights rest. That is why I did a little looking around and found what helps getting a better nights rest.

I'm a list person, but I found this information through the following article from the National Sleep Foundation.
http://www.sleepfoundation.org/article/sleep-topics/healthy-sleep-tips
Because I like lists, here are the pointers -
1. Have a specific time to get up and go to bed, keep it consistent even on weekends. - your body relies on consistency
2. Do the same relaxing activity the hour before you go to bed. - helps you wind down
3. Keep the bedroom - dim, quiet and comfy. - promotes peaceful sleep
4. Don't sleep with a lumpy pillow, or bed. - your body can't relax if is in an awkward position
5. Only water 2-3 hours before bed. - digesting food is work, make sure your body is done working for the day.
6. Exercise regularly, avoid right before bed.
7. Stay away from nicotine or caffeine. - revving your engine before bed is a bad idea.
8. Avoid alcohol before bed. - it's recommended however, even 1 beer sometimes makes me sleepy.

These are just general tips. I've already started working on the first one, and been doing pretty well (except for Friday movie nights). That along with the fact that 3 and 4 are automatics for me. I will have to work on numbers 2, 5, and 6. I can say with confidence that when I woke up early in the mornings to exercise I did feel like I slept better.

I'm hoping that finding this rhythm will help me get into other ones also. It's all about putting one foot in front of the other. Healthy living doesn't happen overnight.

For now, though, sweet dreams!