A good night's sleep should be a priority. Sleep is not just a "timeout" from our busy routines. It is essential for better health, mental and emotional functioning and safety.

Thirty-two percent of those surveyed in the National Sleep Foundation's 2008 Sleep in America poll said that they only get a good night's sleep a few nights per month. So, instead of losing sleep over the hour of sleep you're going to lose, focus on adding more sleep to your schedule for better health year round.

Most adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep daily to feel fully awake and alert. Here are 10 tips to help you improve your sleep habits:

1. Get up at your usual clock time. Although you may find this a bit difficult, it will help you adjust to the time change.

2. Got to bed at your usual clock time. You may experience some difficulty, because your brain has not yet adjusted, but it will also help you get acclimated to the time change.

3. Create a sleep-friendly environment that is dark, cool, comfortable and quiet. Don't underestimate the power of cozy linens and pillows, and window shades are a nice asset, too.

4. Plan a relaxing routine before bedtime. Suggestions include a warm bath, listening to soothing music or light reading.

5. Don't sleep in on the weekends. By going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day, you train your body to know when it's time to sleep, therefore improving sleep quality.

6. Don't nap. You may think you're helping your body catch up, but that's a myth. Taking a quick nap may help you feel a little more awake in the short term, but in the long term, it actually affects your nighttime sleeping, causing you to wake more often.

7. Exercise. It makes sense that tiring your body will help improve sleep. As a bonus, physical activity will also improve your overall health. Just be sure to rest well in between exercise and bedtime so you're more relaxed.

8. Aim for a good seven to eight hours every night. Just as you budget time for dinner, exercise or time with friends, budget time for sleep.

9. Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol several hours before bed. Save the coffee for breakfast, and eliminate the nicotine completely. As for the alcohol, partake in moderation earlier in the evening.

10. If all else fails, contact a specialist. If your fatigue continues to affect your day-to-day activities, you may want to contact a sleep specialist to see if a sleep disorder is interrupting the quality of your sleep. When seeking help, look for an accredited center that specializes in sleep disorders. The MCGHealth Sleep Disorders Center is the only facility in the region accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine to diagnose and treat sleep problems.