About 30 percent of adults suffer from insomnia, with women and elderly most affected, reports the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Some people resort to prescription drugs to invite slumber. Others look to herbal relief. But there is another way to help the body relax, say scientists who have examined the link between moderate exercise and a good night’s sleep.

According to the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, anxiety is a leading contributor to this sleep disorder and a session of moderate aerobic or strength exercise can reduce the anxiety level of insomnia patients. The study reported that participants fell asleep 54 percent faster and reduced their wake time by 36 percent, increasing total sleep time as well. The study was the first of its kind.