Get More Zzzzz's

With over scheduled workdays, stress, and pressure to get everything done, many of us find that sleep is one of the biggest sacrifies we make. Surveys conducted by the National Sleep Foundation (1999-2004) reveal that at least 40 million Americans suffer from over 70 different sleep disorders and 60 percent of adults report having sleep problems a few nights a week or more. Do you fall into this 60% with sleep problems?

Sometimes, you just need to catch some shut-eye!

Sleep is tied to every system in our body, and chronic lack of sleep can lead to disruptions in the:

• Brain and nervous system
• Cardiovascular system
• Metabolic functions
• Immune system

Minimalist blogger Leo Babauta of ZenHabits has a great list on his blog about ways to increase your chances of sleeping like a baby (the peaceful, cherub baby stereotype, not the one that keeps you up all night). His abbreviated list:

1. Exercise
2. Get up early
3. Establish a bedtime ritual
4. Keep your room only for sleeping
5. Focus your attention
6. Change slowly

For more information on the importance of sleep, check out this information from the American Psychological Association. Divine Caroline also has a good article on managing the most common sleep disorders.

What is your best tip for getting a good nights sleep?