Getting enough sleep…probably the number one thing I struggle with in my life! Between severe insomnia, work stress, family stress, and chronic pain, it seems like I’m never rested. (Probably every lady reading this is nodding in agreement!)

For a long time, I treated sleep as a want instead of a need. There was always something that seemed more important: cooking, cleaning, watching movies, reading, blogging, etc. Of course, by skimping I only ended up feeling worse. I need sleep to function and if I don’t, everything will end up out of balance. Here are 20 specific things that have made a world of difference in my quest for rest:

1. Make it a priority – Until this truly matters, you will always find an excuse to stay up.
2. Sunshine – Many of us are Vitamin D & light deficient. 15 mins daily is the minimum needed.
3. Moderate caffeine – I try not to have any coffee after 1:00pm.
4. Have a nightly routine – It takes time to wind down, after all.
5. Set a bed time – Same as the kids, pick a specific time and stick with it.
6. Power off electronics – Do this at least an hour beforehand.
7. Don’t fight the urge – Ever feel sleepy but stay up so long a second wind takes over? Yeah, me too. It’s never good.
8. Water therapy – Try a bubble bath or shower before bed. Water can be very soothing.
9. Sleeptime tea – I love a cup mixed with lemon and honey.
10. Essential oils – Rubbing a drop of lavender oil on temples or feet can help. If the oil bothers you, try a pillow spray instead.
11. Journal – Many nights I have tossed and turned as my mind races. Write it down, then let it go.
12. Adjust the room – Is it cool? Is it dark? Is it quiet?
13. Earplugs – Family members, street traffic, and barking dogs are all noisy!
14. Eye shades – Even miniscule amounts of light from clocks, TV’s, and outside can severely impact sleep.
15. Regular exercise – If you’re sedentary most of the day, you may never feel tired. A moderate amount of movement, preferably early on, is best.
16. White noise – Some folks feel nervous in total silence. Try using a sleep app, leaving on a fan, or playing soft music.
17. Limit liquids – Too much and you’ll be in the bathroom multiple times during the night.
18. Secure the house – Close the windows, lock the doors, check the kids. Needless worrying be gone!
19. Prepare for morning – Set out clothes, set the breakfast table, wash hair—anything to streamline for the following day.
20. Hugs & kisses – Make a point to give every member of the family some love before bed. This is a quick and easy way to connect that has lasting impact.

How much sleep do you average nightly? Is it ever enough?