How do I get to sleep more quickly?

[Sleepglorioussleep]

With three dc, one of them nine weeks old, sleep feels very important in our house ATM. I feel so much better if I can get a nap in the afternoon. Ds, 2.10, still naps and dd1 is at school so in theory it's possible. But I take ages to get to sleep so I am often just drifting off when one or other of them wakes up, or dh returns with children from a trip out. Sleep deprivation was what triggered Pnd or similar last time and I'm so wanting to avoid it thus time.
Any tips for getting to sleep quickly? 15mins of actual sleep is enough to keep me sane til bedtime.

[Iggly]

Is your bedroom dark? Can you nap in the same room as the little one? As soon as she goes for a nap, lie down.

[Sleepglorioussleep]

I think I fool myself that reading helps but in truth I think I just need to lie down and shut my eyes. Heaven knows-I'm tired enough! Will try again tomorrow!

[Sleepglorioussleep]

Erm...so the latte this morning might not have helped?

[redbird79]

I hear you OP! The best sleep I've had in months was after Pilates and yoga classes- any chance of you popping to one?

[WhatsWrongWithYou]

If you can fine a website or book that gives you the information for free, Buteyko breathing technique works a treat. I can explain it iye, but you'll all think I'm mad!

[PersonalClown]

Have you tried Paul McKenna??

I've gone from being insomniac and getting to bed at 4 am to about 11pm.
No caffeine from about 6 hours before you want to sleep, room slightly cool and no reading/ipod/dvd in bed.

Meditation works for me too.

[debka]

And if you're not sleeping, don't worry about it, just lie quietly with your eyes closed, you will be resting and feel better for it.

[LittleMilla]

Ear plugs are my saviour. Had them before DS and they always help me nod off...and I can still hear him when he wakes up.

After extensive research I had recommend these ones.

And debka is right. My mum always used to say to me that it's also important to rest...so shut your eyes and work from your toes up to your head, tensing and relaxing all of your muscles...

My DH says that I am a professional sleeper. So you can imgine how well I have taken to motherhood!

[Sleepglorioussleep]

Thanks for all those really good suggestions. Shocking night last night so i imagine if I stand still this morning I'll nod off so lying down should be a doddle .

[Chandon]

listen to debka!