Integralist wrote:
Here are some suggestions:
1.) Maintain a regular bedtime and wake-up time, including on weekends
2.) Establish a regular, relaxing bedtime routine
3.) Create a sleep-conducive environment that is dark, quiet, comfortable, and cool
4.) Sleep using a comfortable and supportive mattress and pillow
5.) Use your bed/bedroom only for sleep and lovemaking.
6.) Finish eating at least two to three hours before your regular bedtime
7.) Exercise regularly, but complete your workout at least a few hours before bedtime
8.) Avoid consuming caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol close to bedtime
9.) Avoid watching TV (or any other strong visual stimulus) immediately before going to bed
It should be stressed that, for the most part, these suggestions are exterior/environmental changes. On the flip side, your interior states are likely to influence your sleeping ability just as much as your environment. That being said, it may help to do some sort of breathing exercises right before bed. While I don't know how busy your thoughts and emotions are at bedtime, it may help to focus on your breathing at this time, to help draw energy away from your thoughts and hence allow your mind to relax better.
I was going to suggest most of these- it is important to wind down before bed and have a standard routine because this signals to your brain to start making melatonin. When I was in the Air Force I had to iron my uniforms every night, and usually I did it close to bed time, so I would start yawning as soon as I set up the ironing board. Think about when you were a kid- you had a very set routine more than likely. After dinner there was a little playtime or TV, a bath, brush your teeth, get your stuff together for the next morning, and then you went to bed. Do something like this for yourself, and I bet you will get back in sinc.