i would argue that television is equivalent to electronic heroin. interesting link: http://dieoff.org/page21.htm . I've been watching a decent amount of television recently, conscious that I was disconnecting from reality, and i noticed that there were definitely symptoms of addiction, disassociation from reality. i don't think falling asleep to the t.v. is a good idea...seems like a very hazy, unconscious proposition. better to get yourself good and tired and listen to crickets or something, music if you need some noise...

although i do think it's important to ask yourself, why do i need noise and distraction in order to relax and rest?