A Good Day Starts with a Good Night

"Human beings are the only species that deliberately deprive themselves of sleep for no apparent gain...many people walk through their lives in an under slept state, not realizing it." says sleep scientist Matthew Walker.

If that statement rings true for you, perhaps it's time to do a little sleep inventory.

How many hours are you sleeping a night? Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night.

Is your sleep sound or do you wake up often? Try listening to a mindfulness meditation before you go to bed, turn off your phone for two hours before you intend to sleep, and discuss with your doctor the benefits of introducing a magnesium supplement into your diet.

Are you sleeping in a dark room? The darker, the better. Are there some pesky little lights from electronics illuminating your room? Option one: unplug everything. If that is not so practical then a layer or two of black electrical tape will solve the problem. Keep an extra roll for when you travel. Hotels always seem to have the bed facing a tv with some bright light staring back at you.

Are you eating for good sleep? Stop eating two hours before bedtime to void indigestion and heartburn. Limit caffeine in the afternoon and evening hours so there is nothing interfering with the natural sleep hormones that your body produces in the evening.

Are you setting up your evenings for sleep? Turn down the lighting at 7 pm, have a warm tea, and turn off your electronic devices. Give your body adequate time to wind down each evening and you'll fall asleep faster and earlier.

Wanna get some more info so you can get excited about sleep? Pick up The Sleep Revolution by Arianna Huffington or check out The Sleep Foundation's website.