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Sleep easy: 5 tips to kick your night owl habits for good

Even though we spend a third of our life sleeping, sometimes it can be hard to just shut our eyes and catch those zzz's. So when counting sheep just won't do the trick, try following these simple steps and you'll be Sleeping Beauty in no time.

Create a sleep schedule (and stick to it)
Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to create a steady sleeping rhythm. Your body will start to feel more refreshed and naturally energized when your alarm goes off in the morning—meaning you won't even need to hit the snooze button a million times.

Alarm Clock, $30, burkedecor.com

Practice a relaxing bedtime ritual
A peaceful bedtime routine will let your brain know that it's time to unwind and let go of the stress of the day. Try some deep breathing exercises, practice meditation or yoga, or imagine a happy place like the beach or the mountains to help calm your body and mind.

Stay off your computer!
Have you ever noticed how you can stay up into the late hours of the night watching a show on your laptop and not even feel tired? That's because the type of light that your computer screen gives off is a stimulant to your brain which allows you still feel awake even is it's 2:30 in the morning. Give yourself a computer-free hour before bedtime and try reading a good old paper book if you're looking for some entertainment before you turn off the lights.

Silence your phone
Staying up late texting your crush may sound romantic until you start falling asleep in class the next day. Turn off the sound on your phone and flip it over so the bright light of a new message won't wake you. And if you still can't keep your hands off it, try putting your cell on a table that's far from your bed.

Create your perfect sleeping space
Make your bed a comfy spot to curl up in every night that is reserved just for sleeping (no eating or studying in bed.) Surround yourself with plush pillows and soft blankets so you don't toss and turn or wake up feeling sore. Eliminate outside noises with a fan or a sound machine. A fan will also help you maintain a steady temperature, which affects the quality of your sleep. If outside light finds its way into your room, there are always fun eye masks to play around with.