Often when we’re wide awake worrying, we’re focused on something that’s happening in the future. Mindfulness can be a powerful antidote as it directs your attention towards what’s happening in the present: focus on your breathing or focus physical sensations like how warm your bed sheets feel.

Focusing all your attention on how you can’t get to sleep will only make sleep more difficult. Instead, distract yourself with engaging imagery, involving as many as your senses as possible.

For example, close your eyes and picture a nice beach—can you hear the crashing of waves? Feel the s...