Goodnight moon. Goodnight stars. This is the perfect time to catch some ZZZZZ's and I can promise you, if you follow these steps, it will be the best sleep of your life!
1) A hot bath before bed.
I stand by this method, especially in the freezing winter. There is nothing better than a warm bath and then putting on some fuzzy socks to catch some zzzzz's. Beware though, the hot steam might just make you fall asleep in the bath.
2) Try out soothing aromas.
Lavender, chamomile, and vanilla are sweet-smelling, yet calming aromas that can help anyone get some beauty sleep. They have sedative properties that not only allow the body to relax, but diffuses a sense of tranquilly and calmness right before you fall asleep. So go ahead, have a whiff of some light lavender oil or chamomile tea, it will definitely help you experience some well-deserved sleep.
3) Create the perfect setting for sleep.
If you can't go to sleep, let sleep come to you! Create the best environment that will offer you a rejuvenating night's sleep. No bright lights, correct room temperature, a cool blanket, and maybe some beach waves or rainforest background music? Once you have the ideal setting to sleep in, all your nighttime problems will magically disappear!
4) Eat foods rich magnesium.
Avocados, bananas, black beans, spinach, dark chocolate - yup, all these foods have the healthy dose of magnesium you just might need to get a good night's sleep. Incorporate them into a balanced diet for the most effective approach, however, if your taste buds are not too fond of these foods, ask your doctor about a magnesium supplement!
5) Make sleep a priority.
Ever say you'll go to sleep at 11 and then basically end up overthinking the entire night while staring at the ceiling? Well, here is a general rule. If you want to sleep, then schedule your sleeping time! Make sure you schedule your daily priorities (school, activities, work, etc) in order to make time for you night priorities, sleep is more important than you may think. Heads up to students, just because you may need to pull an all-nighter once in a while does not mean it should ruin your entire sleeping schedule. Take 20 minute naps throughout the day, manage your time, and I promise, going to bed by 12 does not seem so hard.