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Research reveals that getting an average of eight hours of sleep a night is beneficial for optimal functioning of the body. Those individuals who get adequate sleep tend to have better immune function, better memory, are at less risk of harmful disease and tend to have a better ability to learn. It also supports faster muscle recovery and brain function. With sleep proving to be this beneficial, here are some strategies to ensure you are getting a full night’s rest.

• Sleep Schedule. Keep a similar sleep schedule on weeknights and weekends by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
• Be Physically Active. It’s important to spend some time outside being physically active, whenever possible.
• Turn Off Electronics. Use the hour before bed for quiet time. Stay away from artificial light and intense exercise. Artificial light includes the TV screen and your phone light, so power down an hour before bedtime to get the full benefits of your sleep.
• Avoid Caffeine. Before going to bed, you should avoid consuming any products with caffeine in them. The effects of caffeine can last around eight hours, which can throw off your sleep schedule.
• Keep it Cool, Dark and Quiet. It’s important to keep your bedroom quiet, cool and dark to get a full night’s sleep. Your bed should become your sleep haven and include anything you need to de-stress and relax.