5 Tips for Cultivating a Bedtime Routine

Today we’re talking the magical element that affects EVERYTHING else you do: beauty sleep. As we all have a million things on our plates each day, our time in bed almost always gets the short end of the stick. However, it’s SO important that we respect our mind, body, and soul’s non-negotiable need for deep, restorative sleep.

Not only does it feel oh-so-good to get a full night’s rest, sleep is also directly connected to your eating habits the following day. Studies have shown that those who are well-rested have better portion control and will select healthier food options than those who are sleep-deprived!

I always aim to get 8 hours of sleep every night – even if it means sacrificing an episode of a show I’m dying to keep watching or climbing into bed instead of talking to my hubby for another 20 minutes. I know that when I do get my beauty sleep, I’m more energized the next day, more focused, + feel more connected to the moments in my day! 

Of course, wanting to get enough sleep isn’t the same as actually doing it, which is why I’m sharing my five tips on how to cultivate the perfect bedtime routine:

1. Unplug 2 hours before it’s time to hit the hay.

It’s time for ALL of your screens – your computer, TV, tablet, phone – to go to sleep so you can give your eyes and brain a chance to wind down. If you have the discipline to not get sucked back into checking your email or Instagram, then feel free to use your phone as your morning alarm. But otherwise, I suggest getting a good ol’ fashioned clock and leaving your phone in the kitchen or living room.

2. Brew a cup of calming bedtime tea.

Chamomile is always a wonderful go-to for bedtime, but if you’d like to try a potent blend of herbs and flowers, try Yogi Bedtime Tea. I love this relaxing, stress-relieving tea because it contains chamomile, valerian, St. John’s Wort, lavender, skullcap leaf, cardamom, cinnamon, rose hip, raspberry leaf, stevia, passion flower, licorice root, AND spearmint. I recommend drinking your tea an hour and a half before it’s time to go to bed so you can hit the bathroom right before you go to sleep :)

3. Write down 5 things from the day that you’re grateful for.

While you’re sipping your tea, take out your favorite journal and reflect on 5 amazing things that you’re thankful happened. They could be as big as getting a job promotion to as small as noticing how pretty the poppies were outside your neighbor’s home. Write down whatever made you smile + filled your soul with bliss.

4. Apply lavender essential oil.

Rub 1-2 drops of lavender oil on your shoulders or neck (or even better – kindly ask your roommate or partner to give you a 1 minute back massage with the oil. And be sure to return the favor!). The calming aroma of floral, sweet, herbal notes with balsamic undertones will help relieve any stress or insomnia you’re facing. If you have sensitive skin, you can also try a lavender lotion or mist the air with this purifying Chrysalis Water.

5. Do 5 restorative yoga poses.

One of the best ways to ensure restful sleep is to cap off your day with restorative, bedtime asanas. Slowly begin to calm the nervous system down with these five relaxing yoga poses—a lovely way to counteract stress, naturally prevent insomnia, and promote peaceful dreams.

I'd love to hear how your bedtime routine is going. Please share your story or any tips + tricks you have with me on Facebook!