Tip of the week: How to get some shut-eye

Close the medicine cabinet. People who have trouble sleeping might be tempted to ask for prescription pills straight away. But though meds can seem like an easy fix, it’s just as easy to “become psychologically dependent” on them. Instead, try herbal remedies, aromatherapy, hot baths, and other nonpharmaceutical solutions first.

Nix the nightcap. Alcohol, in the end, is not very helpful. Although it initially helps some people “conk out,” studies by the National Institutes of Health found that the chances of getting an uninterrupted night’s rest decrease. Drinkers are also more likely to remain sleepy during the day.

Relax, rest, repeat. Try to stick to a sleep schedule as much as possible. It’s important to get to bed at approximately the same time each night, and keeping “a set rising time” is crucial to avoiding fatigue and insomnia. That’s why sleeping in on weekends actually does more harm than good.

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Source: Harper’s Bazaar