When your head hits the pillow breathing and heart rate slow. Muscles relax. Body temperature drops a bit. From there it's an elevator ride through the repeating levels of sleep. A ride that naturally takes a little over 8 hours. According to the National Sleep Foundation, the average adult now gets 6.9 hours on weeknights. No wonder we are a nation of zombies.
 

As Americans we can't seem to say good night to responsibilities and activities. We are a society that runs 24/7. Millions stack up sleep debt like an unlucky gambler. And we pay back that debt with our health.
 

Myth: The older you get, the fewer hours of sleep you need.

National Sleep Foundation research shows that 42% of American adults believe this myth. In fact, sleep need remains unchanged throughout adulthood. Older people may wake more frequently through the night, but their sleep need is no less than during young adulthood. Sleep difficulties are not a normal part of aging.
 

Getting enough uninterrupted sleep is vital to our well-being. But even if we don't have one of the many sleep disorders doctors now recognize, other factors can keep us from the rest we need.

• Pain and Sleep: There is evidence that sleep disruption and pain are reciprocal: that is pain can disturb sleep and restless sleep can cause or intensify pain.
• Physical Factors: Keeping hands and feet warm when going to sleep induce deeper sleep more quickly. Light mittens and socks or a heated bed surface can improve the quality of your sleep.
• Environmental Factors: Mattress deterioration is one of those things that can sneak up on you. A good mattress must be comfortable and supportive for both you and your bed partner.
• Edible Remedies: Mattress deterioration is one of those things that can sneak up on you. A good mattress must be comfortable and supportive for both you and your bed partner.