Rock-A-Bye, Baby

INSOMNIA by definition is the inability to sleep or to stay asleep for a period of time.

One-third of the population of our society has insomnia.

We share the roads with the sleep-deprived, work with them and live with this population on a daily basis.

So, let's understand some of the condition:

People who get less sleep are prone to obesity. They release more cortisol which, in turn, deposits more fat in the body.

Here are some solutions:

*Start the day with a good breakfast, just like your mother always suggested!

*It is okay to nap if you didn't have a good night's sleep. Research has proven that if you nap for 15 min. you will feel more alert and less sleepy, even if you haven't slept well the previous night.

*WATER: Losing as little as 1/2 cup of body water could turn into low-grade chronic fatigue. Drink eight 10 oz. glasses of water/day. Add four more glasses if you have exercised that day. Empty your bladder prior to retiring for the night.

*Exercise earlier in the day (but, by all means, exercise!).

*Cut caffeine after 2 p.m. Refrain from alcohol within three hours of bedtime. Don't forget that there is caffeine in colas, chocolate, tea and some medications.

*Go outside when it's sunny and turn on the lights in your home in the morning. This will help to set your awake/sleep cycle.

*Play some of your soothing music prior to retiring.