My failsafe way to get to sleep is to count my breath. I try to breathe very slowly and deeply, quiet my mind during the inhales, and count the exhales. This keeps my mind busy by giving it something to focus on without letting it run wild and keep me up. If I'm not asleep by 100 (about 10 minutes) I might as well get up because I'm not tired.
I am often tired and trying to change this. Here is what I am trying:
1) Notice patterns of when I get tired, usually mid-afternoon. Try to plan some down time for this time of day; do computer work, meditation or something non-physical at this time.
2) Replace "I am tired" with the affirmation "I have more than enough energy to accomplish everything I want to do".
3) When I am tired, sit down for a few minutes and drink some water. Sit quietly (not reading or watching TV or anything) until I decide on my next activity.
4) Walk and move like a person who has lots of energy. Thrust my shoulders back and chest out and move purposefully. Sit straighter at the computer. Put more energy and focus into everything I do.
5) Go to the gym. Do more intense exercises while at the gym.
I feel like I am making some progress, but I am trying to change some long-ingrained thought patterns and I still have a ways to go.
