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When you’re tossing and turning at 3 a.m., it may feel like you’re never going to get to sleep. But you may have more control over your sleep than you think.
From the time you have your last sip of coffee, to the number of meals you eat throughout the day, adopting and maintaining certain habits can help you wind down at night and get a healthy seven hours or more of quality sleep.
From Christopher Morgan, MD, a neurologist and sleep specialist in Grand Rapids, Michigan, here are 11 strategies to get more quality rest.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Preventi... + 18
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