Make sure your bed is cozy

It might sound obvious, but people often forget that they should make sure their beds are on point. Replace your old bedding (use our bedsheets guide to find the perfect set), and buy the best mattress you can afford. This is all an investment in your well-being.

Also shop mattresses and pillows.

Put in some ear plugs

If your problem is that you wake up at the slightest noise (let alone your spouse’s snoring, not that I know anything about that), try a pair of ear plugs to keep you snoozing soundly.

Try a supplement

I’ve used melatonin, since it’s a sleep hormone your body also produces naturally. Other recommendations could include valerian root, magnesium, lavender, and chamomile.

Wear a mask

Sleep masks block out any extraneous light, and also make it super dark beneath your lids, which helps induce sweet, sweet sleep.

Turn on some white noise

Maybe you need just the right kind of noise to help you fall asleep. Some people find the constant whirr of a fan or the ocean soothing—you can simulate these and more effects with one of these.

Put on your headphones

Listen to music or download a white noise app to drown out any sounds from your surroundings—this is particularly effective if you sleep with a partner who sleeps extra soundly.

Cool off

The optimal temperature for a good night’s sleep is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. A fan is a good way to cool off and has the added bonus of providing some relaxing white noise.

Take a hot bath

Soaking in a hot bath is a great way to relax—make it extra indulgent with a bath bomb or bubbles. Lavender scents are known to help people sleep easier.

Work out

Getting in good exercise earlier in the day, more than 4 hours before bedtime, should help you sleep easier at night.

Meditate

Calming your mind—whether just before bed or periodically throughout the day—helps alleviate the anxiety that keeps many people up at night. If you're unsure about how to meditation, our meditation tips might help.

Also shop meditation gear.

Dim the lights

At least 1–2 hours before bedtime, lower the lights to tell your body it’s time to shut it down soon.

Also shop dimmable lamps.

Indulge in a massage

Anything you can do to keep you more relaxed during the day can help you sleep better at night. Find out which type of massage is best for you.

Try acupuncture

Acupuncture is designed to release the flow of energy in your body from blockages that can cause aches, stress, and anxiety. And once that’s all unblocked, you’ll surely sleep more soundly. Learn what to expect with our guide.

Let someone hypnotize you

According to our guide to hypnosis, one of the main reasons to get hypnotized is to help with insomnia. Hypnotherapy can help calm your mind and relieve anxiety.

Soak in some daylight

Getting some real daylight, especially for 15 minutes first thing in the morning, can help bring you down at night. If you can’t make it outside, try an artificial daylight lamp.