With our busy schedules, myriads of distractions and various sleep disorders, sleep is often elusive. Yet, so often it's our own behavior that leads to a sleepless night.
Take a nap. Sure, I've said in several articles that naps are good for you. So, take a nap - say from right after lunch until time for the evening meal. 6 or 7 hours should do it. Guaranteed - no sleep for you tonight.
It's time for the evening meal, and you could eat the proverbial horse. Well, no horse meat on the table, but there is a huge steak, baked potato dripping with butter and sour cream - and for dessert? Deep fried apple fritters with reral whipped cream. Um-ump! Deleicious, and a sure path to indigestion and nightmares.
Don't get me wrong! I advocate exercise, but this late at night, you'd be better off with a few minutes of yoga or mediatiob, Instead, you opt for a brisk walk that gets those old juices bubbling. Good for the body. Bad for sleep.
All that exercise left you smelling - well, less than fresh. Shower or bath? Both will get you clean and sweet smelling. However, a stinging shower, after all that exercise will only increase your energy levels. You'll feel more like dancing the tango instead of sleeping.
Finally it's time to sit down and relax. You pour yourself a big mug of coffee, or open a can of Cola. How about that box of chocolates you got for your birthday. Half a layer left. May as well finish them off. Caffeine, caffeine, caffeine. Insomnia, insomnia, insomnia.
Along with that coffee, time for tome entertainment. With your beverage of choice sitting beside the chocolates on your bedside table, turn on the TV. You have a choice - either an exciting sci-fi or suspense show. Lots of fast movement, shouting, shooting, the works. Or an even more exhilarating TV or computer game.
You've heard that music is good for lulling you to sleep. How about some heavy metal - lots of drums and screamed-out lyrics. Turn it up loud, put on the earphones. Now - off to sleep. Right!
Still can't sleep? You've been tossing and turning for yours. You have an important meeting in the morning and have to alert and at your best. Look at the time. In fact, watch that clock. A sure-fire way to elude sleep.
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