Valerian root is great, but I found it helpful for calming my nerves and not so much for sleepiness. Its a great pain reliever as well.
That is great advice!!!!!!!!! I was having trouble sleeping and tried the mattress pads, pills, etc. and got nowhere fast. I then purchased a Sealy Posturepedic Montley. Wow, what a difference this made. It has about 2-3 inches of that foam material and it's just enough to provide an incredible layer of comfort. I didn't like the mattresses that were all foam as I felt like I sunk in. This provides just enough cushion. Since I got this new mattress, I now have trouble getting OUT of bed. Anyone have any good advice for getting out of bed in the morning? ... just kiddin!
Yeah, not sleeping on a bag of potatoes makes a world of difference. A good chai tea is great, leave out anything (normally) stimulating, and go heavy on fennel and nutmeg (cinnamon is also good in the combo) no reason not to put chamomile as a base in that too. Make sure its prepared normally though, diffused in hot milk& served warm. With honey to sweeten.
I would like to add one more thing. Light, warmth and sound...For myself, sleeping in a pitch black room is much better then sleeping in one that has the faintest of light. Next time you sleep, make sure all light is blocked out. Not even the clock radio light should show. . .
A few other points: 1. Have a light dinner only and at least 2 hours before you try to sleep. 2. Have a walk or easy (aerob) exercise. If too lazy a hot bath. 3. A little milk or a glass of wine before going to bed. 4. Get a boring book that is not trading related. Something easy, a romance novel or something that will put you to sleep... 5. Count the corners of your room...
Here's what works for me, Avoid alcohol (white wine is especially bad for me) Exercise (it really works) I have a NordickTrack and a Bowflex Celestial Seasonings Herb teas (Sleepy Time and Chamomile) Do not eat at least 3 hrs before bed, also don't drink a lot of water or tea just before retiring. I usually have a cup of tea about an hour before. One other thing, avoid chocolate. As you get older, good sleep is less frequent, but these work for me.