In the hustle of the typical 9-to-5 life, the inclination to crash in bed while scrolling on our phones is common, leading us to neglect the valuable hours before sleep that could be used for more meaningful pursuits.
What if you could turn these night hours into a haven of tranquility and self-reflection? Here are some tips for an effective night routine to calm your mind, soothe your soul, and prepare your body for restorative sleep.
DIGITAL DETOX
With technology dominating our work and social spheres, continual screen exposure, notably to blue light, disrupts our sleep by tricking our brains. Couple hours before bedtime, completely detach yourself from your phone and any other devices you use. You can use a screen lock app for your phone during your digital detox, so that you are unable to use it even if you are tempted. By setting these boundaries, you can allow your mind and body to truly rest and recharge.
MEDITATION
Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, focus on your breath, and lose yourself in your thoughts. A 10-minute meditation session helps in grounding your thoughts and brings your attention to the present moment. It doesn’t matter if you have experience in meditation or not. Meditation is for enhancing your emotional health, and promoting a state of mindfulness.
JOURNALING
Journaling is a way to express your inner thoughts and emotions in writing. Note down the things you are grateful for, no matter how significant or minor. Reflect on your day – the new insights you gained, the obstacles you faced, and the ways you overcame them. You can also plan for the next day by listing your tasks and setting goals. You can unleash your creativity with a bullet journal, which serves as a multi-functional tool encompassing a calendar, to-do list, goal-tracker, and diary all at once.
SKINCARE ROUTINE
A skincare routine is not about your physical appearance only, it is a practice that symbolises self-love and care. Choose products that suit your skin type and enjoy the process of applying them. Especially during the harsh months of winter, a good rich creamy moisturiser or a hydrating serum not only makes your nights more therapeutic but also helps in maintaining healthy and glowing skin.
YOUR NIGHT ROUTINE SHOULD BE ADAPTABLE TO ACCOMMODATE LATE WORK HOURS, SOCIAL EVENTS, OR SIMPLY THOSE DAYS WHEN YOU ARE NOT FEELING YOUR BEST. BUT MAKE IT AS CONSISTENT AS POSSIBLE.
READING
End your day by immersing yourself in a captivating book for about half an hour. Settle into a comfortable spot, wrapped in a soft blanket, for a peaceful reading session. Whether it’s fiction that helps you escape reality or non-fiction that feeds your curiosity and knowledge, reading is a perfect way to gently transition into a state of restfulness.
FURTHER GUIDANCE
Your night routine is very personal, and should cater to your interests. The activities are not just tasks to be checked off but nurturing practices that pave the way for a serene and rejuvenating night’s rest. That being said, it is essential to sleep on time.
Allow yourself to make mistakes. You cannot expect to adhere to every step of a routine everyday, as each day’s demands are different. Avoid an all-or-nothing mindset and make room for adjustments. Your night routine should be adaptable to accommodate late work hours, social events, or simply those days when you are not feeling your best. But make it as consistent as possible. Strategically position reminders on sticky notes, such as on your bathroom mirror or beside your bed, to act as visual cues that gently guide you towards your self-care goals.
By dedicating time to a night routine, you’re not just closing a day; you’re opening the doors to a more balanced, peaceful, and fulfilling life. Just be careful not to make it so complicated that it becomes a burden and no longer relaxing – that’s the exact opposite of what we’re going for here.