Why is it that our minds seem a million times more awake right when our heads hit the pillow? Or how come we can be completely exhausted but right when we get ready for bed and turn off the lights, we all of a sudden aren’t tired anymore? Well, it could be a number of things. Anxiety, caffeine, or something big going on that week can all be factors. Our bodies are so active all day that when it’s time to sleep, our brain is still thinking about things that happened throughout the day.

Sometimes it seems like our mind is our biggest enemy. You'll find yourself pondering about something embarrassing that happened that day or maybe something stupid you said and are really being hard on yourself for it. You just have to remind yourself that tomorrow is a brand new day and a chance to be even better than the day before.

Here are a few things that attack my brain quite often when I’m trying to fall asleep that I think lots of people can relate to:

• I can already tell tonight is going to be one of those nights where it takes me forever to fall asleep.
• Ugh it’s so hot under my covers.
• It’s pretty cold without any covers…
• One leg in, one leg out. Perfect.
• I guess I could also open my window to get some air flow.
• Bad idea…there’s kidnappers out there.
• I wish I didn't get acne. Will my skin ever get clear?
• I need to lose weight so bad, but I love food too much.
• Ugh, I really need to hit the gym tomorrow, I'm so chubby.
• That donut shop across the street is sounding pretty good for breakfast though.
• I have so much homework due this week I’m going to die.
• My anxiety is taking me over.
• That presentation in front of the entire class is due in a few weeks and I’m already stressed about it.
• I need to get a job. I'm going to be poor forever.
• Well, if I fall asleep in the next 10 minutes, I’ll only get 4 hours of sleep. I’m practically a zombie.
• Okay this is out of hand, I really need to go to sleep.
• “One sheep….Two sheep….Three sheep…..”

Nighttime can be the dreaded time when all of the worries and problems in our lives get stuck in our brain. From little things such as wondering what you’re going to eat for breakfast the next morning to big things such as a presentation due in class, our minds are notorious for making those problems seem so much bigger than they actually are. Finding a sleep routine that works for you can really make a difference in your overall mood and energy levels. But, if you find yourself tossing and turning for hours, join the club.