It is easy to find ourselves restless at night. If you are having a rough time getting to sleep at night, you’re not alone! We have nights where our brain can’t shut off, the body is too hot or cold, or the bed isn’t comfortable. But keep reading, because a few easy tips to change your evening routine can help you sleep more soundly….get ready for some zzz’s.
- Exercise daily. Do 30 minutes of physical activity in the morning or early afternoon. If you do exercise too late in the evening it may keep you up. So use exercise to wake you and provide energy. Use the energy throughout the day and rest throughout the night. Exercise will make you feel so much more relaxed and rearing to go for the day.
- Find a calming scent. Lavender or Ylang Ylang oil can be extremely relaxing and can help you to find true rest. Placing a few drops in a diffusor is a great way to spread it in the air throughout the night to keep the brain at ease.
- Refrain from eating too close to bedtime. Undigested foods can leave you feeling restless and awake. Stop eating 3 hours before you go to bed. You want to head to bed when you feel you could eat again.
- Sip on tea. Decaffeinated green, white, and oolong teas provide great antioxidants and when served warm promote relaxation. Nighttime teas really do have relaxing properties in them to relax the mind.
- Create a consistent bedtime. Prepare to go to bed at a logical time. Figure out how much sleep is necessary for your body and mind to function daily then make it happen. People always laugh at what time I go to bed–I am a creative early morning person so I need to head to bed at 8pm to fall sleep by 9pm. I know this so I force myself even when a great television show is needing to be watched.
- Prepare your sleeping area. Create a safe and relaxing environment. Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and cozy. Don’t allow work or food to enter into the sleeping zone. Utilize an eye mask to block any light that comes in. Oh yes, Ben laughs because as soon as my sleep mask goes on I quit talking and fall asleep.
- Stay hydrated early within the day. Drinking 64ounces of water early and throughout the day will aid in avoiding late night thirst and numerous night trips to the restroom. Start the healthy actions early so get them done and cross off, this will have you feel accomplished!
Did I forget anything? What nighttime routines do you have to sleep more soundly?