My secrets for deep sleep: a cool bedroom is just one trick to ensure a night of sound slumber - What's on My Mind

SLEEPING IS ONE OF MY favorite things to do, in part because I usually have vivid, interesting dreams. But even more important, I enjoy it because of the way I feel after: centered, invigorated, ready for the coming day.

Despite my love of sleep, it doesn't always come easily. Some things can give me temporary insomnia. (For instance, if I've exercised too late in the day, it can take awhile for my body temperature to cool enough to allow me to fall asleep.) So I've learned a few tricks to help set the stage for plenty of zzzzs.

1. Exercise at the Right Time, The latest I can do vigorous exercise is 7 p.m. If I want to exercise later in the day, I do only gentle exercises like walking or stretching. And I always make sure to finish them at least an hour before I go to bed so my body can totally cool off.

2. Plan for the Morning. I sleep best when I know I've got things ready for the next day. So each night before bed I prepare,my breakfast and lunch for the next day, feed the dog, and lay out my work clothes. That way I don't have to worry as I'm falling asleep about getting up early to rush around and get things done.

3. Adjust the Temperature. I sleep best in a cool, slightly humid room. So in the summer I run an air conditioner. In the winter I turn the heat down to 63 degrees and run a humidifier. (You may find different settings work for you; the point is to experiment.) As an added benefit, I find the white noise produced by these appliances to be very sleep-inducing.

4. Stick to a Schedule. I like structure. My body and mind function best when they follow regular routines so I try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.

In this issue, freelance Writer Chris Ott went to sleep experts to find their best advice for getting rejuvenating shut-eye. To learn their secrets, see "Stay Young with a Good Night's Sleep," page 70.

Hope you sleep tight tonight!

Wishing you good health,

RACHEL STREIT Editor in Chief

WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND? I would love to hear what you're thinking about these days. Email me at RachelStreit@weiderpub.com or send a letter to me at Natural Health, 70 Lincoln Street, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02111.

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