May brings us Mother’s Day, the one day each year when we are encouraged to recognize the awesome gifts our mother has given us, as well as the sacrifices she has made to give us life and guide us safely along our path. At least that’s what I want my children and husband to do!

In all honesty, I’ve been thinking about how important it is for our families that as moms, we are as healthy and happy as we can be. Getting enough sleep is not only critical for our children, but for ourselves, too. Even if you have a baby who isn’t old enough to sleep through the night, there are things you can do to improve your own sleep.

So with that in mind, here are my seven ideas to help mom sleep, at least this month. (Hint, hint…some of these make great Mother’s Day gifts!)

1. Try a white noise machine. They are not only great for babies, but many grown-ups love ‘em. Or do what I do, and just get an App for your phone. I use White Noise. If you use an iPhone, just make sure to turn off the sounds from the other apps, so you aren’t interrupted with phone calls or email bings.

2. Make your bed an oasis. Treat yourself to a new luxurious pillow or new sheets. Debbie likes this Temper-Pedic Neck Pillow. Buy some snugly pajamas or a silky nighty (whichever is more your style). We spend one third of our life in bed, so splurge a little and make it a real refuge.

3. Spend time relaxing before bed. Turn off your screens. Enjoy a nice cup of tea (caffeine-free, of course). I like The Republic of Tea Ginger Peach Decaf and Cardamon Cinnamon Herbal Tea. Maybe throw in a bubble bath.

4. Book a babysitter. In the SF Bay Area, we have this great service, UrbanSitter, that can help you find a sitter quickly. Then spend some quality adult time – by yourself, with your significant other, or with friends. Go to the gym, see a movie, or have a nice dinner – anything that will recharge your batteries.

5. Go to the spa. Do something really therapeutic for yourself. Whether it’s a massage, facial, or other treatment, you will not only enjoy it at the moment, but most spa treatments have lasting physical effects and even positive emotional benefits. Spa Finder Gift Cards are accepted at spas around the world.

6. Schedule a day to sleep in. This one might be tough, but if you can figure it out, it is soooo worth it. There’s just something about getting an extra hour or two of sleep in the morning that feels so much better than going to bed early. Ask a grandparent or friend to take your kids to the park the morning. Or have your partner do what my husband does on occasion – get the kids out of the house first thing and go to the 24-hour doughnut shop.

7. Get away for the night. If you are lucky enough to have grandparents nearby or a sitter you trust, leave the kids and escape with your partner to a nearby hotel for an overnight. Ask for a quiet and dark room – the idea is to maximize sleep. Put out the “Do Not Disturb” sign and tune out the world for the night.

-Melissa