Here's why you don't sleep well in a new place

By Jen Christensen, CNN

Updated 1529 GMT (2329 HKT) June 23, 2017

Setting an alarm might be the only thing that helps you get up in the morning, but try setting one at night to remind you when it's time to go to bed. Click through our gallery for other tips for better sleep.
Photos: Tips for better sleep
Setting an alarm might be the only thing that helps you get up in the morning, but try setting one at night to remind you when it's time to go to bed. Click through our gallery for other tips for better sleep.
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Did you know that having warm feet can help you sleep? Pull on a pair of socks before bed to speed up how quickly you'll fall asleep.
Photos: Tips for better sleep
Did you know that having warm feet can help you sleep? Pull on a pair of socks before bed to speed up how quickly you'll fall asleep.
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Even the smallest amount of light can disrupt your sleep patterns. Keep your bedroom as dark as possible for the best night's sleep.
Photos: Tips for better sleep
Even the smallest amount of light can disrupt your sleep patterns. Keep your bedroom as dark as possible for the best night's sleep.
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Exercise regularly? You'll sleep better. Even a few minutes of physical activity a day can help.
Photos: Tips for better sleep
Exercise regularly? You'll sleep better. Even a few minutes of physical activity a day can help.
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Paint your bedroom a tranquil color to make your room a restful one.
Photos: Tips for better sleep
Paint your bedroom a tranquil color to make your room a restful one.
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Naps, when limited to 30 minutes and not too close to bedtime, won't interrupt your nightly sleep routine.
Photos: Tips for better sleep
Naps, when limited to 30 minutes and not too close to bedtime, won't interrupt your nightly sleep routine.
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Yoga can help you wind down at the end of the day and calm your mind, which also slows your breathing and heart rate for better sleep.
Photos: Tips for better sleep
Yoga can help you wind down at the end of the day and calm your mind, which also slows your breathing and heart rate for better sleep.
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Get some sunlight first thing in the morning. It triggers your brain to stay awake and alert early in the day and helps you ease into sleep a little earlier at night.
Photos: Tips for better sleep
Get some sunlight first thing in the morning. It triggers your brain to stay awake and alert early in the day and helps you ease into sleep a little earlier at night.
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Story highlights

  • Half of your brain may stay awake to keep you safe from danger in a new environment
  • Birds sleep with one eye open and can turn off half their brain to get some rest

(CNN)Do you struggle to fall asleep and/or stay asleep when you are on the road? Don't blame your pillows or the sheets. Instead, blame your own hyper-vigilant brain.

It appears that half of our brain may remain alert when you sleep in a new location, at least on that first night you are away from home, according to a study published in the latest edition of Current Biology.