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As more time is spent together in bed than anywhere else the key to a successful marriage could lie in the bed you sleep in. Water beds, adjustable beds, pocket spring beds, foam, latex or visco-elastic beds, divans with sprung bases, bedsteads with slats, separate beds, king size beds - they all have their advocates, so how do you go about choosing the right bed for you?
BED SHOPPING
The best approach is to research the options carefully, taking time to try them out to discover the style that you find most supportive and comfortable. The best way to do this is to lie on each bed you are considering in your normal sleeping position for a minimum of 5-10 minutes. Buy as big a bed as possible, especially if two of you are going to share it. You need to be able to sleep without being disturbed (and vice versa).
The best way to ensure that you're a satisfied customer is to shop at a store you know and trust to give you good information, good service and top quality products. Look for educated salespeople who can guide you through the many choices. If you don't feel your salesperson is knowledgeable or helpful, take your business elsewhere.
When comparing beds remember that a "bargain" mattress and foundation are no bargain when it comes to getting a good night's sleep. Shop for the best value, not the lowest price. And, buy the best you can afford. Considering that you'll probably be using your bed more than any other product you own - including your car, TV, computer or phone - the mattress you sleep on is one of the best costper- day values on the market today.
CREATE A SLEEP SANCTUARY
Once you’ve found the right bed you need to concentrate on creating the right bedroom environment. Creating a sleep sanctuary doesn’t have to be difficult or costly. Regardless of space or budget, the Better Sleep Council offers these five steps to help transform a bedroom into a haven of comfort.
Assess it: Evaluate your bedroom. Start with the basics: take note of lighting, temperature, noise-levels, mattress quality and comfort, décor, and clutter. Keep in mind that the bedroom is for sleep and sex only! It’s not an office, movie theatre, or restaurant. Look for any items that remind you of daily stresses or don’t evoke relaxation, and remove them from the room.
Visualise it: Once you identify trouble spots, start visualising the bedroom of your dreams. Think of a bedroom where you have enjoyed an extraordinary night’s sleep. What were the characteristics? Look through magazines for inspiration. An image of your ideal bedroom will begin to emerge.
Invest in it: While creating a sleep sanctuary doesn’t have to break the bank, it is important to invest in a quality mattress and foundation. If you’ve had your mattress for more than five to seven years, it’s likely not providing you with the necessary comfort and support - treat yourself to a new one.
Create it: Focus on the elements of design: colour, texture, accessories, etc. Select colours based on how they make you feel and opt for hues that make you feel at ease. Include photos and mementos to make it unique and personal. Include something organic to add life. Above all, keep it clean and uncluttered.
Enjoy it: A sleep sanctuary is part of a larger commitment to restful, rejuvenating sleep. Better sleep requires you to make sleep a priority. Keep a consistent sleep routine; exercise regularly (but not immediately before bedtime); and reduce intake of caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine near bedtime. You’ll enjoy the better quality of life that results from your efforts.
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Planning 
