Many thanks to all those kind people who took the time to write and advise me on sleeplessness.
Specifically, it is getting back into a deep sleep after only 3 or 4 hours sleep.No apparent reason for this.
Afib. aside I am well and lead a pretty busy life for an older person. This lead me to wonder why I wake up after only a short while after going to bed.
I will consider your replies and useful ideas. Again many thanks for your help and words of wisdom..
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Hello Ginger cats. This sleeplessness as you get older is a pain. I'm 64 and work in an office full time. I have underlying heart issues and take meds and am waiting for another valve replacement. I can't do much physically but do try to keep myself mentally stimulated.
In the last couple of years since this heart malarchy started, for me to have a complete nights sleep is a rarity. After about three hours this switch goes on and I am wide awake. I've tried everything from not using laptop/mobile at night to keeping the bed warm or cold depending on the time of year. The only thing that seems to work for me is to get up, make a cup of tea and read a book. After about an hour that seems to make me sleepy and I go back until 5 am.
If I should be silly enough to have a nap in the afternoon (at weekends not at work!) then sleep that night will be evasive.
Yet on holiday in Lanzarote I can sleep all night!
I don't drink or smoke in fact my one vice is chocolate but not to excess.
Some suggestions please!?
Sleep is regulated by melatonin release which is affected by exposure to sunlight / darkness. I find I suffer much more from insomnia in winter especially if the days are dull. I am sleepy during the day but find it hard to drop off at night. Apparently the more bright light you get exposed to earlier in the day the better your melatonin release at night when you need it. This might explain why you sleep better in sunny Lanzarote.
Remember, chocolate contains caffeine - so enjoy it in the morning - early!
When I have this problem, I clear my brain of all thoughts and worries by saying and repeating the word "sleep" over and over until I guess my brain gets bored and back to sleep I go.
Thank you all so much!
Thank you 
Thank you!
Thank you
