Achieve a Deep, Uninterrupted Sleep - 24 ways to get the rest you need

clipped from www.rd.com Blessed sleep -- the holy grail of health. Lack of sleep can send your blood sugar levels skyrocketing, contribute to weight gain, lead to depression, put you at risk for diabetes, and cause brain damage. Sleep deprivation can alter your levels of thyroid and stress hormones, 1. Create a transition routine. 2. Figure out your body cycle. 3. Sprinkle just-washed sheets and pillowcases with lavender water and iron them before making up your bed. The scent is scientifically proven to promote relaxation, and the repetition and mindlessness of ironing will soothe you. Or, instead of ironing your sheets, do the next best thing: Put lavender water in a perfume atomizer and spray above your bed just before climbing in. 5. Switch your pillow. clipped from www.rd.com Adjust Your Bedroom 6. Choose the right pillow. Other pillow tips 10. Tuck a hot-water bottle between your feet or wear a pair of ski socks to bed. 11. Kick your dog or cat out of your bedroom clipped from www.rd.com 14. Eat a handful of walnuts before bed. 15. Munch a banana before bed.