The above is from A.D.A.M. materials, and is abbreviated here.  I have added other information from other sources.

• Have a set schedule for wake-up and going to bed, and stick to it, even on trips.
• Excessive time in bed disrupts sleep, so use it for sleeping and sexual relations, but not for working, reading, etc.
• Exercise before dinner, but not before bedtime: exercising before bedtime may increase alertness.
• Do something relaxing before bedtime, such as reading, meditation, or a leisurely walk.
• Keep the bedroom relatively cool and well-ventilated.
• If you have trouble sleeping, do not obsess over the clock.
• Have dinner 4-5 hours before bedtime, and eat light.
• Avoid fluids right before bedtime, to avoid having to get u pin the night.
• Avoid caffeine in the hours before sleep.
• Spend 30 minutes in the sun each day, preferably in the morning.
• If distracted by a sleeping partner, go to the guest room or another place.
• If you have trouble getting to sleep in the first 30 minutes, do something relaxing by dim light; avoid bright lights.
• If worrying is keeping you from sleeping, thinking of imagery rather than words may make sleeping more easy.
• Avoid fruit or other sugars before bed.  Eat or drink protein before bed.

[The above is from A.D.A.M. materials, and is abbreviated here.  I have added other information from other sources.]

Category: Body · Health & Wellness

We are all concerned about our physical health: losing weight, dieting, and getting enough exercise. We have stressful lives and are in a constant battle with our emotional stability, especially when going through changes. Many of us, however, ignore another important factor to overall well-being and to coping with changes: sleep health. When we sleep well, we wake up feeling refreshed, alert and ready to face daily challenges. When we don’t, every part of our lives can suffer. Our jobs, relationships, productivity, health and safety (and that of those around us) are all put at risk. [Read more →]

Category: Body · Health & Wellness

I was amazed at the results from this study that I received from the Center for Media Research (May 26, 2008 “Appearance and Weight Trumps Disease in Women’s Concerns”). It makes we think that we women should *change* our priorities!!

“According to a the second in a series of findings from the Meredith/NBC Universal “What do Women Want?”, when it comes to health, 56% of women are more concerned about diet/weight and 36% about eating right, while only 23% express the same degree of concern about cancer, 20% about heart health, and 18% about diabetes.

The nationwide survey among more than 3,000 women reveal key insights on the female psyche across topics including health and well-being. Many women are skipping important medical examinations, annual physicals and screenings:

* Less than two-thirds (59%) of all women [Read more →]

Category: Body · Diet & Fitness · Health & Wellness

Change is often accompanied by stress, and sometimes even leads to anxiety attacks. If you suffer from anxiety and panic disorder (such as anxiety attacks or panic attacks), I highly recommend Mastery of Anxiety and Panic, by Craske and Barlow (2007 Oxford University Press). A recent U.S. phone number is 800-445-9714. Friends have had anxiety attacks, and I have been told that they do pass and life will again return to normal. It just takes time. This is not a medical site: a physician’s guidance is strongly recommended. If you want to discuss anxiety/panic disorder on the Forum, that would be great! [Read more →]

Category: Body · Health & Wellness · Mind · Spirit & Soul

In its recent article titled “America’s Healthiest Spas”, Health.com has selected “Four Great Weight Loss Spas”. The four spas chosen were New Life Hiking Spa, Red Mountain Spa, Hilton Head Health and The Greenhouse. “We are extremely excited about being chosen as one of the four great weight loss spas for the America’s Healthiest Spa article. We are celebrating our 30th anniversary this year and this is a wonderful milestone to mark our 30th year in business”, stated Jimmy LeSage, M.S., founder and director. [Read more →]

Category: Body · Diet & Fitness · Health & Wellness