We were always told to count sheep if we can’t fall asleep, however the best cure would be to go for a run!
Experts agree that an aerobic routine during the day can keep you from tossing and turning at night, even if they’re not sure why.
If you are having trouble sleeping, which actually is a problem for about 25% of the population, you should try to fit in an hour of exercise a day. Apparently, an hour of exercise can do more good than an extra hour of sleep.
“There’s no scientific evidence that people need eight hours, seven is fine,” said Dr. Youngstedt, an expert on sleep and exercise at the University of South Carolina. “Exercise has wonderful benefits. It’s better than drugs for diabetes, mental health, cancer prevention.”
Even though exercising does often help sleeping, for some people, exercising right before bed does not work so well.
So, if you are experiencing some sleeping problems, stop counting sheep and don’t run straight to your doctor! Make sure to exercise early on in the day, avoid caffeine and do something calm before bed.
[Image via AP Images.]