Almost everyone has experienced sleeplessness caused by getting all hyped up over something right before bedtime. External stimulation of any kind can cause you to have a more difficult time falling asleep. An hour before bedtime, it is a good idea to try to reduce or avoid any types of things that could keep you awake.

Your goal is to find a balance between stimulation and relaxation. The easier and quicker you can relax at night the easier and quicker you will be able to fall asleep.

The following list is things that cause many people problems.

* Television-give up that last hour of tv before bed or choose programs that have less action and are more relaxing.
* Exercise-best avoided 2 to 3 hours before bedtime. Increased heart rate and blood flow wake up your body and mind, not what you want at bedtime.

* Outside Events-allow enough time after returning home to unwind before trying to get ready for bed. If you try to go straight to bed, you may find it hard to relax enough to fall asleep.
* Reading-while some reading material may help you become sleepy, textbooks or work-related reading may be too stimulating for your mind. If you do choose to read, don’t fall asleep with the light on, as this may wake you up later in the night.