CNN offers a list of tweaks that will let you wake up feeling incredibly well-rested.
Step 1: Halt your afternoon habit
Drinking coffee or tea right before bed is obviously a bad idea -- but you also need to watch your afternoon drinks. Start avoiding caffeine after 2 PM.
Step 2: Choose sleep superfoods
Avoid a big, heavy meal right before bed, but if you've had a few nights of restless sleep, make a light whole-wheat-pasta dish with fresh vegetables, a little diced chicken breast, tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for dinner. If you’re hungry late at night, try a small bowl of cottage cheese with banana slices.
Step 3: Sip wine sooner
Alcohol may help you relax and fall asleep faster, but it'll make the second half of your sleep cycle restless and unsatisfying. If you like a glass of wine in the evening, have it with dinner -- around 6 PM rather than 11 PM -- and drink in moderation.
Step 4: Take an early soak
Surprisingly, a hot bath might make it harder for you to fall asleep. Your body needs to cool to a certain temperature. Take your bath when you get home from work, not right before turning in.
Step 5: Stretch for sleep
Exercising at night can disrupt sleep. But a little gentle, restorative yoga can help put your mind at ease, steady your breath, and reduce muscle tension.
Step 6: Set the mood for slumber
Bright light too close to bedtime can make it hard to fall asleep. If you like to read in bed, do so in the lowest light that's still comfortable.
Step 7: Ban your BlackBerry
An hour before bed, turn your smartphone off, and put any gadgets on an out-of-reach dresser or in another room so you won't be able to grab it if you get the late-night urge.