A good nights rest is essential for all of us to live our lives to the fullest. Bedtime rituals are what set up our sleep for success or bust. Sleep has been ignored for so long, by so many, as not being a priority in our wellness routine. But I think now people are starting to “wake up” to the importance of a good nights rest. Sleep is KEY for healing our internal system on a nightly basis. Studies have shown that a prolonged period of lack of sleep, can lead to many health concerns. Including anxiety, depression, diabetes, heart concerns and premature aging. Sleep really is the building block of a healthy lifestyle. That is where bedtime rituals come in!
The Importance of a Bedtime Routine
If you’ve been following our blog for a while now, you know how much we love our routines. Routines are vital to setup a life we’re deserving of living. Bedtime rituals can look different for each and every one of us, there is no set rule on our routines. Perhaps you like to unwind with a good book, or you prefer to do some yoga before bed. Find a ritual that fits your needs and make it consistent! Setting ourselves up for proper sleep will change the game on how we feel on a daily basis. We can speak from experience, consistent, deep sleep is essential and will truly rejuvenate you as you start everyday. Keep on reading to find out our 10 relaxing bedtime rituals for better sleep.
10 Bedtime Rituals to Do Before Sleep:
1. Avoid electronic devices an hour before bedtime
The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with your body’s natural sleep cycle. By giving yourself a break from your devices at least an hour before bedtime, you will allow your mind to relax. Which makes falling asleep much easier as well as your sleep more peaceful.
2. Take an everything shower or a relaxing bubble bath
Indulge in a soothing shower or bubble bath to wash the day away. The warm water can help relax your muscles and prepare your body for sleep. Add some essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus to enhance the calming effects and create a spa-like experience at home.
3. Practice deep breathing or meditation
Deep breathing exercises and meditation can help calm your mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety. Spend a few minutes focusing on your breath or using a guided meditation app to ease into a peaceful state of mind before bed.
Give these videos a try:
10-Minute Meditation For Sleep
5 Minute Mindfulness – Evening Meditation
4. Listen to calming music or nature sounds
Soft, calming music or nature sounds can create a serene environment that promotes sleep. Consider making a bedtime playlist with your favourite soothing tunes or using a white noise machine to block out any disruptive sounds.
5. Write in your journal
Journaling before bed can help you process your thoughts and emotions, making it easier to relax and unwind after a long day. You might want to jot down a few things you’re grateful for, reflect on your day, or write about any lingering thoughts that might keep you awake. Check out our blog post on journalling to calm your mind!
6. Dim the lights
Bright lights can disrupt our sleep, so make sure you aren’t soaking in a ton of light before heading to sleep. Keep your house lights to a minimum, perhaps light some candles instead! Stay mindful of your phone and other electronics as well, blue light can be really disruptive. The goal is to create a relaxing environment.
7. Stretch or do some light yoga
Gentle stretches or light yoga can help ease muscle tension and discomfort, making it easier to fall asleep. Focus on stretches that target areas where you tend to hold stress, such as your neck, shoulders, and lower back.
Bedtime Yoga | 20 Minute Bedtime Yoga Practice | Yoga With Adriene
Moon Practice | 15 Minute Home Yoga Practice | Yoga With Adriene
8. Drink a cup of herbal tea
Sipping on a cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or lavender, can be incredibly soothing. These teas have natural calming properties that can help you unwind and prepare for sleep. Make this a part of your nightly ritual to signal to your body that it’s time to relax.
9. Read a book
Reading a physical book can be a great way to relax and escape into another world. Choose a light, enjoyable read rather than something too stimulating or intense. This can help signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down.
10. Set a consistent bedtime
Consistency is key when it comes to improving your sleep. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
Bedtime rituals and routines are the key to setting up our days for success, think of sleep at the same importance as any other wellness routine. And remember, routines can ebb and flow. We don’t want to be too hard on ourselves if we fall off track or have a bad week. The goal here is to create routines that make us feel our best and setup our lives for success. Sleep habits should be the same way. What other bedtime rituals do you have? Comment down below!
And if you like wellness content and have a love for lifestyle vlogs, check out Cornelia’s 12 week wellness series, week 1 is linked below! Building routines and wellness habits is a big focus in these videos!
Xo
Meg & Cornelia
