We need sleep to survive. Sleep restores us. There is no magical number of the amount of sleep that can be used as a benchmark for everybody. Every person has their own requisite amount of sleep that is required to function each day. Normal sleep times range from 5-10 hours; the average is 7.5 hours. About one or two people in one hundred can get by with just 5 hours; another small minority needs twice that amount.

Normal sleepers have a relatively predictable "sleep architecture," the term used to describe an alternating pattern of Rapid Eye Movement (REM) and non-REM sleep. The REM sleep is related to dreaming and occupies about 25% of our sleeping hours. REM sleep is characterized by a high level of activity. In fact, your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing are similar to what you experience when you are awake.The second type, known as non-REM sleep, is characterized by light and deep stages, with the deeper stage (slow wave or delta sleep) usually predominating during the first three hours of sleep. In contrast, heart rate and respiration slow down and blood pressure declines during the deepest stages of non-REM sleep, believed to be the most physically restorative time for the body.

Scientists define the best sleep as having the right mix of REM and non-REM sleep, allowing you to feel well rested and to function at your peak.

• Sleeping only when you are sleepy reduces the time you are awake in bed.
  
  
• Make an effort to get up and go to bed the same time every day - even on weekends!
  
  
• Refrain from exercise at least 4 hours before bedtime so it will not interfere with your sleep.
  
• Developing sleep rituals will help give your body cues that it is time to slow down and sleep.
  
  
• Stay away from stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine at least 4-6 hours before bed. Alcohol should also be avoided as it will fragment sleep.
  
  
• Make sure your bed and bedroom are quiet and comfortable.
  
  
• Don't go to bed stuffed or starved. A big meal late at night forces your digestive system to work overtime. In contrast, a rumbling stomach and hunger pangs will interfere with your ability to settle down and sleep through the night.
  
  
• Sleep on a good mattress. You're less likely to get deep, solid, restful sleep on a bed that's too small, too soft, too hard or too old.

Evaluate the current condition of your bed. It may be difficult to get a good night's sleep on a mattress that is not comfortable to you. A "bad" mattress may be the cause of sleeping problems. The following questions will help guide you in assessing whether it's time to replace your mattress:

• Does the mattress surface sag in places, especially where you normally sleep?
• Does the foundation (boxspring) have an uneven or sagging surface or is it bowed in the middle?
• Is the mattress soft or weak in some spots and firm in others?
• Does the mattress make creaks or other suspicious noises when you turn over or move around?
• When you roll around, does the bed wobble or sway?
• Do the edges of the mattress sit higher than the center?
• Is there a gradual slope toward the middle?
• Do you feel cramped or always at the edge of the mattress?
• Are you comfortable in bed or are you always adjusting to get more comfortable?

1. Is your mattress over 10 years old?
   Don't rush into buying a mattress until you have "discovered your comfort."  Your Mattress Discounters Sleep Counselor can help you try as many models as possible by lying down on each model for several minutes. Turn from side to side to check comfort and support in all positions. Take your partner and try out the models together.
   
   
2. Look for several key features and benefits. Comfort, support, durability, and space are critical characteristics to evaluate when purchasing a Mattress Set. Check coil counts: full-size should have at least 300, queen-size at least 375 and king-size at least 450. A high coil count doesn't automatically mean it's a better product. Wire gauge is important too -- the lower the number, the more durable the wire (13 is thicker than 16). And remember, you can't judge a mattress by its coils alone. Look for a combination of top quality system and superior upholstery materials.A good foundation (boxspring) is as important as a good mattress. It acts much like a large shock absorber, taking a lot of the nightly wear and tear. Don't put a new mattress on an old foundation.
   
   
3. Buy a complete Sleep Set, not just the mattress. A steel wire boxspring foundation is as important as a good innerspring mattress. When buying a mattress, buy the companion boxspring - the two are designed to work best together.
   
   
4. Shop for the best value, not the lowest price. Mattress prices are determined by the materials used, the quality of construction and the size. Consider the amount of time you will use a Sleep Set and the problems that may accompany a poorly constructed Sleep Set (i.e., back problems, restless sleep, overly tired during the day). Remember, a mattress is a long-term investment in your health and well-being, and costs only pennies a day.
   
   
5. When you are ready to purchase your new mattress set, check to see if the store will have your old bed removed and properly disposed of. Mattress Discounters offers free disposal of your old mattress and boxspring with delivery.
   
   
6. Don't be afraid to ask your Sleep Counselor questions - as many as you need to ensure that you are confident in your purchase. Shop at a store you know and trust to give you good information, good service and will guarantee your comfort. Mattress Discounters is the largest mattress retailer in America and is staffed with knowledgeable Sleep Counselors to assist you in finding the right mattress for your needs. Visit one of the many Mattress Discounters or call 1-800-Buy-A-Bed to speak directly to the store nearest you.