Whether you frequently struggle to get to sleep or you’d just like to get a better night’s rest, its important

Whether you frequently struggle to get to sleep or you’d just like to get a better night’s rest, its important to make your room a sleep haven. Try our tips and enjoy the benefits of a great night’s sleep.

Sound machine

Invest in a sound machine and fall asleep to anything from a babbling brook to a busy city street. Not ready to make the purchase? Try downloading sound generators on your smart phone or turning your radio to a static station.

Elevate your legs

Add a small pillow or two under your legs for added support. Perfect for back pain sufferers, this position relieves pressure from the lower back.

Sleep like a cat

Cats generally sleep on their sides with their front and back legs extended so that their body’s weight is evenly distributed. Next time your cat naps, take some notes.

Paint your room

Make your room an escape from the outside world. Paint the walls in whatever color soothes you. Try cool, calming colors like blue, purple, or green.

Ban the television

Keep the TV out of your room and you’ll get a much better night’s rest. Television can keep your brain active making it harder to fall asleep. Try reading a book or a magazine to wind-down from the day. And whatever you do, don’t fall asleep with the TV still on.

Keep lights low

Make your room’s lighting, warm and soft by using table lamps and floor lamps. The soft, warm glow will lull you into a restful night’s sleep.

No work zone

Your bed is not a remote office cubicle. You’ll get more work done if you’re relaxed and refreshed each day at the office, instead of sleep-deprived and grumpy.

Plus: 7 Sleep Disorders: What’s Keeping You Awake?

Sources: Mayo Clinic and WebMD