由 home-healthhaven 
Having a good night’s sleep can greatly improve your mood and overall health. Ironically, as I write this late at night on just a few hours of sleep, I’m reminded of a major sleep disruptor: stress and anxiety. If you’re like me, you’ve likely spent nights lying awake, your mind racing with thoughts of what you missed during the day and what you need to do tomorrow. We’ve all been there, struggling to switch off and get to sleep. Fortunately, there are a few tricks that can help you sleep better.
If you find it hard to shut off your mind due to stress, listening to soft music might help. I’ve created an acoustic playlist specifically for this, and it helps me fall asleep without dwelling on the day’s stresses. There are also CDs designed for this purpose, with soothing sounds like ocean waves that can lull you to sleep.
The ancient Chinese practice of Feng Shui suggests that sleep disturbances happen due to imbalanced energies. Rearranging your bedroom can help reset these energies and promote better sleep. Try to place your bed away from the door but still in a position where you can see it. Avoid sleeping under a skylight or with your head facing an open window, as these can negatively affect your “Chi” (energy).
A warm bath can relax your muscles and mind, and drinking a warm glass of milk about 15 minutes before bed may also help.
Establishing a regular sleep schedule—going to bed and waking up at the same time each day—can regulate your sleep cycle and improve your sleep quality.
Increasing your exposure to natural light during the day can also help you sleep better at night. Think about it: centuries ago, people didn’t have artificial light sources except for fire, so their sleep patterns followed the natural light and dark cycles. Modern life has disrupted this with artificial lighting. Natural light exposure boosts melatonin production, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle. If you work in an office, try to spend your lunch breaks outside, move your desk closer to a window, or use a light therapy box.
Also, cut down on caffeine, quit smoking, avoid overeating before bed, and limit alcohol intake—all of these can disrupt your sleep. Nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol are stimulants, and digesting food while trying to sleep can be problematic.
Keep your bedroom tidy. I find that I can relax more in a clean, clutter-free space with good furniture and a pleasant smell. Make sure your bedroom is a peaceful sanctuary that doesn’t add to your stress.
Yesterday, I spent the whole day in bed with the flu—curtains drawn, lights off, TV on, and napping on and off. Now it’s 4 am, and I’m wide awake! I guess it’s time for a warm bath and some soothing music.