So I've been hearing that I'm not the only person on the planet who's been having trouble sleeping.

Sheesh. I'm hoping sleeplessness is just a premenopausal thing and that someday soon it will all go away. (Pul-ease?)

But in the meantime I'll tell you the list of what I must do/not do in order to sleep well, many ideas which I've read here and there. Not that I consistently do all of these! Some days I just say, "Oh phooey. Who needs sleep anyway?," and then go and act like I'm 20 again and eat and do what I feel like. And pay for it. sigh.

But to get a good night's sleep, my list is still growing and if it helps any of you to sleep better, well, I'll be content (and perhaps sleep a bit better, myself):

Here's what I attempt for a good night's sleep:

1. Avoid chocolate, desserts and caffeine after 11 (or so) in the morning. (I know. Like anyone can do that?)
2. Avoid eating a meal within 4 hours of bedtime.
3. Take a calcium, magnesium and zinc pill before bedtime. Also a melatonin pill, smallest dosage. A krill oil pill, also. I call these my sleeping pills.
4. Avoid exercising a few hours before sleeping. But exercise and work hard enough--earlier--to make yourself tired.

5. Avoid eating most fruits before retiring for the night.
6. Eat a tiny amount of protein before bed, such as, a bit of peanut butter.

7. Drink a quarter cup of grape juice (or eat a few grapes or bites of banana) a half-hour, or so, before bed. Try to avoid drinking other liquids a couple hours before sleeping.
8. Wear comfortable, cool (or warm) clothing.
9. Leave a window partially open in the bedroom for air for humidity.
10. Make sure the room is completely dark.
11. Run a small fan to block outside noise.

12. Don't go to bed too early. Don't go to bed too late.

Sigh. This is what I mean by becoming more high-maintenance the older I get. And this is just in one area! I have other lists, trust me. ツ



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