This is Part IV of this series on Diet Preparation. In this article I am going to give you a few ideas on how to improve your sleep environment. We lose countless hours of good and effective sleep when the environment in which we are trying to sleep isn't conducive to getting a good night's sleep. Here are a few pointers on how to make sure your surroundings are going to aid you and not hinder you in getting a good night's sleep.

* First, make sure your bed is large enough and comfortable. If you are disturbed by a restless bedmate, switch to a queen- or king-size bed. Test different types of mattresses.

* Second, therapeutic shaped foam pillows that cradle your neck or extra pillows that help you sleep on your side. Get comfortable cotton sheets.

* Third, make your bedroom primarily a place for sleeping. It is not a good idea to use your bed for paying bills, doing work, etc. Help your body recognize that this is a place for rest or intimacy.

* Fourth, keep your bedroom peaceful and comfortable. Make sure your room is well ventilated and the temperature consistent. And try to keep it quiet. You could use a fan or a "white noise" machine to help block outside noises.

* Fifth, hide your clock. A big, illuminated digital clock may cause you to focus on the time and make you feel stressed and anxious. Place your clock so you can't see the time when you are in bed.

These are five eas-to-implement ideas that will help you create a better environment that will be conducive to a good night's rest. And getting a good night's sleep is one of the most overlooked elements in the entire weight loss discussion today. Implement thses five ideas, and you will be well on your way to creating the environment you need.

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Mark Fuqua
Editor-in-Chief and Consultant
Diet Basics

With 3 earned degrees and more than 16 years of experience as spiritual leader, pastor, director of marketing and investment banker, Mark Fuqua brings to the discussion table a breadth and depth of unique experience coupled with academic acumen. He is Consultant and Chief Editor of Diet Basics, a website dedicated to healthy weight loss success.