How Teens Can Get Good Sleep

– When you wake up, get a few minutes of direct sunlight (go outside to the balcony, patio or backyard).

– Do a morning stretch for 5 minutes or 5 MIN Workout (50 squats, 30 second planks, 5 pushups, finish with 10 sit-ups).

– If you use caffeinated beverages, consume them before 12 noon.

– Napping is ok somewhere between 1 pm – 430 pm, for no more than 20 to 30 min.

– Exercise a little before homework (do 5 MIN Workout – 3 sets)

– At around sunset, go outside for a few minutes. The change in light triggers the Melatonin burst.

– Dim your bedroom lights after sunset.

– Shower 1 hour before bed. As the body cools down, it is better able to fall asleep.

– Do not rely on Melatonin.

– Do not binge eat right before bedtime as it may cause stomach discomfort and disrupt falling asleep.

– Do not look at cell-phone or tablet screens after 9 pm (the light disrupts falling asleep).

– Do not get light between 11 pm – 4 am.

– Close the curtains or blinds to make the bedroom as dark as possible.

– Keep your bedroom temperature a little cool. This will help you fall asleep faster.

– Avoid going to bed past midnight on weekends.

– Avoid sleeping-in past Noon on weekends.

– Doing these things will disrupt your sleep clock.

– If you have problem controlling nighttime thoughts – journal, stretch, yoga, or listen to this guided meditation.

https://soundcloud.com/drmichaeltorres/sets/guided-meditations

– Try to get 9.5 hours of sleep every night.

– Do not look at a clock if you are struggling to fall asleep (triggers anxiety).

DO THESE PRACTICES EVERY DAY FOR GOOD SLEEP!

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