Want to Sleep Like a Baby? Try these 3 Things

Prolonged sleep deprivation, defined as less than 6 hours of restful sleep per night, is associated with deterioration of overall health including a 2-fold higher risk of death from a heart attack or stroke when accompanied by the metabolic syndrome.  In my University-based practice,  sleep deprivation is among the most commonly under-reported complaints that I receive…and it’s only because I specifically ask about it.  Ironically, patients are often not aware that their lower energy levels and reduced ability to concentrate may stem from poor sleeping habits.  So here are several recommendations to help you sleep like a baby!

1. Get into the “mindset” of a baby…after all, a reason babies sleep so well is that they have no worries.  While this may be easier said than done, a new study finds that writing down your tasks for the next day will produce a better night’s sleep. Why? Because preparation reduces anxiety, a prime reason for poor sleep habits.
2. Don’t watch the news before bed….I take that back, but just watch the final segment only because that is the most light hearted and the only relaxing segment.  (In other words, they beat us up for most of the hour and then throw us a bone for the last few minutes).
3. Don’t count sheep, count waves (or other images that relax you).  It works!

Dr. Michael Miller is Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. For many more tips to help you get a better night sleep, check out Dr. Miller’s book, “Heal Your Heart: The Positive Emotions Prescription to Prevent & Reverse Heart Disease“ published by Penguin Random House.