The average mom spends 13 days preparing for Christmas. That doesn't leave a lot of time for sleep. 

Even if you aren't a mom, the holidays are usually a busy time of year. There are parties, gift buying, baking, and decorating to tend to. But without enough sleep during the holidays, you'll start off the New Year feeling run down. 

And that's no way to ring in a New Year. We want to help you learn how to get better sleep so you stay mentally and physically healthy. 

Keep reading to learn our favorite tips on how to get a good night's sleep every night and especially during the holiday season. 

Getting Exercise Helps You Sleep During the Holidays

Moderate exercise is known to increase the amount of slow-wave sleep you get. Slow-wave sleep is that deep sleep that allows your body a chance to rejuvenate. 

But exercise is also known for helping reduce anxiety and boosts the endorphins that make you feel happy. Some people find that exercising too close to bedtime makes them feel wide awake while with others, it doesn't matter.

Aim for 30-Minutes of Exercise

What matters is that you get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise. You may even find you get better sleep results the first time you try it. 

And you'll also help stave off those extra pounds that tend to creep on this time of year with daily exercise. 

Take Naps

If you feel guilty about taking a nap, here are a few reasons to dump the guilt and jump into bed:

• Alertness increases
• Reduces stress
• Improves perception
• Increases stamina
• Better motor skills and accuracy
• Aids in weight loss
• Boosts creativity

If you are struggling to get enough sleep at night, a nap can make up for that lost sleep and help recharge your batteries.  

Get Organized

One reason people can't fall asleep is that they're stressed about getting everything done on time. After all, December 25th isn't a deadline you can get away with missing, especially if you have kids. 

Getting organized before the season begins is a great way to ensure you get everything done on time without stressing yourself out of a good night's sleep. 

Set a Holiday Schedule

Here's how to create the ultimate holiday schedule:

• Make a list of everything you need to do
• Delegate what you can to others
• Cook and bake what you can ahead of time
• Ask for help
• Set a budget

When you go out shopping, try to choose stores that are close by to one another so you're not doing as much traveling. And don't forget that when you shop online, you don't have to leave your home. 

Choose How You Spend Your Time Wisely

You may have to remind yourself that you won't get everything done that you want to. And that's okay. 

Watch any holiday movie and you'll be reminded that the holidays aren't about being perfect, they're about spending time with and appreciating friends and family. 

Don't Attend Everything

If you find yourself being pulled in too many directions this holiday season, choose to only attend the events that are the most important. While you're at the event, remember to stay hydrated rather than inebriated. 

You should also aim not to stay out too late or eat before bed. Otherwise, you'll disrupt your nightly sleep cycle making you feel exhausted and run down throughout the season. 

Keep a Regular Sleep Schedule

Aiming to go to bed at the same time everything helps your body get into a routine. If you head to bed everything night at 10 pm, your body quickly learns that it's time to settle down and get some rest. 

The more often you stick to your sleep schedule, the easier it is for you to fall asleep. 

Tips to Sleep Well

To help you fall asleep faster you should try to:

• Put away all electronics
• Make the room as dark as possible
• Set the thermostat to a cool but steady temperature

The fewer distractions and interruptions at night, the easier it is to fall asleep quickly. 

Take Time to Enjoy the Little Things

It's no fun the holidays if you're so busy that you forget to enjoy the season. Take time to immerse yourself in the activities that make this holiday season so special such as:

• Taking walks in the snow
• Spending time with children and friends
• Watching a Christmas movie

One way to ensure you have the time to enjoy yourself is to ask for help. It shouldn't be up to you to do all of the shopping, cooking, and decorating. 

And often those activities are much more fun when done with others. It's also a great way to make fun memories. 

Eat Healthily

We tend to eat more sugar during the holidays. And that's not good for your health. 

Try adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet this time of year. You'll feel healthier both mentally and physically. 

Your body will find it's easier to sleep when it's not high on sugar, fat, and salt. You'll also prevent yourself from gaining any holiday weight. 

How to Get Better Sleep When Traveling

If you're traveling this holiday season, it may be harder for you to get the rest you need. Here are some tips to ensure that even when you're not in your own bed, you can still get your zzz's:

• Sleep a little longer before and after you travel
• Stretch your muscles
• Bring your own pillow
• Allow time to wind down before bed
• Bring sleep masks and earplugs

If you find that the mattress you're sleeping on is not as comfortable as you'd like, try adding extra blankets underneath your body for extra padding. 

Buy a New Mattress

It's hard to sleep during the holidays when your bed is old or uncomfortable. We can help with that. 

We have sheets, blankets, and mattresses that can help you get a great night's sleep no matter what time of year it is. Click here to shop for a new mattress.