7 Ways to Get Back to Sleep

You get up in the middle of the night and you're wide awake. You need rest for your big day at work. What can you do to get back to sleep?

1. Get Out of Bed

It may not sound like the obvious thing to do, but if can't get back to sleep within 20 minutes or so, go to another room. Do something quiet and unexciting, like listening to soothing music or reading something you've read before.

When you feel sleepy again, go back to bed.

2. Don't Stare at the Clock

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If you check the time over and over, it only adds to your stress when you're trying to get some shut-eye. Turn the clock away so it's out of your sight line.

3. Make Sure It's Not Too Bright

Light makes you feel alert, which isn't what you want when you need to sleep. If you get up to go to the bathroom, get a drink, or have a snack, keep the lighting dim.

If you read, don't use backlit screens such as computers, cell phones, or tablets. They can keep you awake.

4. Get Relaxed

Put your mind and body at ease with these techniques:

Deep breathing. Do it slowly and steadily from your belly.

Meditation. You can quiet your mind if yourepeat a phrase while you do some rhythmic breathing.
Visualization. It's a type of meditation that helps you distance yourself from stress by imagining the sights, sounds, and scents of a peaceful place.

Progressive muscle relaxation. First tense your muscles, then relax them. Do this over and over throughout your body, starting with your feet and working your way up.

To learn more about these and other techniques, take a class or use self-guided books or videos. You can also check out online videos or articles.

5. Try Biofeedback

This mind-body technique requires equipment and training from a specialist. It can help you learn ways to control your tension levels.

Once you master it, biofeedback can help you get back to sleep.

6. Keep a Sleep Diary

This isn't something you should do in the middle of the night. But during the daytime, keep a record of your sleep patterns and other habits.

For instance, write down how often you woke up during the night, what disturbed your sleep, and how much caffeine or alcohol you had during the day. Then take the diary to your doctor. It will help the two of you plan a strategy to get more shut-eye.

7. Talk to Your Doctor

Let your doctor know that you have trouble sleeping. Find out your options, perhaps including medication, that can help you get a good night's rest.

(From WebMD)