Everything about our sleep from our posture and position in bed to what we dream about and how long we slumber can reveal hidden secrets to our personality, says Paul Glovinsky, Ph.D. author of The Insomnia Answer Take our eye opening quiz to find out whats hidden under your covers and how you can get some solid shut-eye!
1. Which of these describes your most comfortable sleep position?
a. On my back with arms and legs stretched out like a starfish.
b. Curled up on my side in fetal position
c. Flat on my stomach with arms up above my head like a basketball player
2. Would you rather be cozy under a:
a. Feathery down comforter
b. Hand stitched patchwork quilt
c. All natural cotton blanket
3. You usually wake to:
a. Your own natural body rhythm
b The sunlight in your room.
c. An alarm clock
4. Whats your favorite thing to wear to bed?
a. A t-shirt
b. A soft silky nightie
c. Cotton P.J.s
5. Before shutting the lights out do you prefer to:
a. Watch television
b. Read or write in your journal
c. Lay out your clothes for the next day
6. Which of these dreams have you had recently?
a. Flying
b. Just missing a plane, train or bus
c. Discovering a new room in your house
7. What time do you usually go to sleep?
a. Around midnight or later
b. Between ten and eleven
c. Before ten
8. Is your dream bed a:a. Roomy and solid oak poster b. Romantic billowy canopyc. Platform with lots of hidden shelves for storage9. When it comes to an ideal temp in your room, do you like to:a. Open the window wide!b. Keep it shut and the room toasty!c. Just crack it open a bit for fresh air!10. Choose your sheetsa. High count natural whitesb. Floral or lace trimc. 50/50 solid pastelsMostly AsYou have boundless energyBoosted by a combination of the feel good hormone serotonin, energy-fueling adrenalin and a positive can-do approach to life you accomplish everything on your to-do list and still have plenty of pep at the end of your day. Folks who are always in high gear need to take three to four hours to wind down from stimulating activity before bed time, says Glovinsky. Watch television (not the news!) or read a book. Even taking a walk in the evening will raise your body temperature and warm you up for a guaranteed good nights sleep! Mostly Bs Your sensitive heartYour choice of romantic bedding, favorite cuddly sleep position and content of your dreams all express your compassionate and caring nature. Our studies show youre the type of kind-hearted and sensitive woman who cares deeply but tends to worry right before bedtime -- which leads to tossing and turning, says Glovinsky. You cant turn off your heart but you can calm your nerves by encouraging tranquility. Experts say setting aside a specific time earlier in the day to address your concerns -- sipping a cup of chamomile tea or taking a warm bath right before bedtime -- will help your worries drift away.
Mostly CsYour no-nonsense attitudeYou take a practical approach to life and that includes knowing the value of sleep. Thats why you make it a point to get at least eight solid hours, sleep in comfy nightwear, keep your window cracked open for just enough fresh air and set your alarm clock -- so you wont have to worry about waking on time! However, research shows practical types like you are also most likely to work in the bedroom --whether that means paying your bills or folding the laundry on your bed -- and this can prevent a deep sleep. Glovinsky suggests treating your bedroom as sanctuary for sleep exclusively -- and youll be more likely to feel rested when you awaken.Robin Westen is the author of the author of The Big Book of Personality Tests for Women (Black Dog and Leventhal)See what others have to say about this story or leave a comment of your own.