[greenteajunkie]

Avoid eating at least three hours before bedtime as food can stimulate. Caffeineated foods and beverages such as coffee, black tea, chocolate and cola drinks, even when consumed early in the day can affect normal night sleep patterns. Alcohol consumption interferes with deep REM (rapid eye movement) type of sleep. Nicotine is a stimulant and smokers can take longer to fall asleep than non-smokers.

Those active during the day, are less likely to have sleep problems. However, exercise several hours before sleep, may give a second wind. Rather than watching TV in the evenings, take a walk.

Too much on one's mind can contribute to insomnia. Write things down before bed: plans for the days ahead, things to do and people to call. Then one can relax, rather than lying awake, trying to remember your "to do" list.

A warm bath before bed can be a sleeping aid. After, the tub has filled, Adding seven drops of psyche calming essential oil of chamomile or lavender can have further calming effects, as one relaxes in the aromatic warmth. . Another technique is to put two or three drops of chamomile or lavender oil on the pillowcase. Pure essential oils should not stain fabric as long as there are no additives.