Sleep eludes all of us at times. Our minds start to race just as our bodies are ready to call it a day. But if insomnia becomes a chronic problem, it can lead to health problems such as depression, anxiety, and impaired memory or judgment. Long term, it can even contribute to diseases like diabetes, heart disorders, and cancer. It also causes premature aging.

Believe it or not, sometimes your bedroom’s décor may be a contributing factor in inhibiting your ability to find a good night’s rest. Some simple changes in the look and feel of your bedroom can make the difference between a restless night and peaceful dreams.

First, move your television out of the bedroom and into your living room or den. Watching TV in bed can actually inhibit your ability to fall asleep. Likewise, put your laptop or desktop computer in another room — or at least, store it somewhere other than beside your bed. Having your computer within reach while you’re trying to relax and put the day’s stresses behind you can be self defeating.

Color can have a strong effect on mood, emotions, and even behavior. Red, orange, yellow and other bright colors are considered to be more stimulating than soothing. To promote rest and relaxation, color therapy suggests the use of “cool” colors such as blues, greens and pinks when designing your bedroom’s décor.

Eliminate excess noise as much as possible. Most homes do not have soundproofed walls, so make sure the rooms next to where you sleep are not home to stereos, televisions or noisy appliances — or at least, try not to locate them directly on the other side of an adjacent wall.

Light-blocking window treatments such as blinds or heavy curtains also promote rest. Even if you do most of your sleeping when the sun is down, there are plenty other sources of light that can sneak through bedroom windows at night and disrupt your sleep. Keep the room as dark as possible, especially if your work schedule requires you to get some of your rest during daylight hours.

If you don’t like sleeping in complete darkness, add some night lights or use a dimmer switch on your bedside lamp rather than leaving it on at full power all night long.

Make sure your windows and doors are set solidly and securely, without any drafts or rattling, and use an air purifier or humidifier to optimize air quality.