Over the years, I have learned the value of having a bedtime ritual. There is something very comforting and calming about doing similar things every night to close out the day.
Bedtime practices also support being able to fall asleep and have a peaceful night’s rest. When I release the stress of the day my subconscious is free to work on my challenges and questions for me while I sleep, often bringing new answers with the morning.
Here are some bedtime ritual ideas you may want to try:
- Journal
- Pray or meditate
- Snuggle with your partner or pet
- Read or listen to something uplifting
- Take time to appreciate and love yourself
- Drink a cup of chamomile tea
- Review or list your wins for the day
- Take a bath or shower and wash off your day
- Start moving slowly and dim the lights
- Scan your body for tension and release it
- Write 5 magical moments or things you are grateful for
- Create an intention for a good night’s sleep
- Let your last thoughts before sleep be loving ones
- Count your blessings instead of sheep
- Give your challenges or projects to God for the night
- Share your wins and/or gratitudes with your partner
- Practice being in the moment as you wash your face and brush your teeth
- Check in on your children and focus on how much you love them
- Review your day and forgive yourself and others for anything you are judging
Hi Linda,
Thanks for these great tips. I notice you didn’t mention watching British murder mysteries at the end of the day, so I guess that’s not a good idea.
Maybe it’s not for everyone, but I have noticed as I get older that trying to read in the evening almost always ends up in sleep. For awhile, I didn’t think I was ever going to finish what I was trying to read. Perhaps I should add both of these to the list.
What a great list you have here Linda. I am taking Arianna Huffington’s Thrive course right now and she emphasizes the need for a sleep transition practice. Thanks for your ideas.
Thank you Tandy. I read Arianna’s book awhile ago and really enjoyed it.
Yes yes and YES mama! Journaling, snuggling and tea time are my favorite methods and of course prayer/meditation is a must!
This is great thank you. Man I struggle with getting sleep. I know that alot has to do with eating and detoxing but I am also a go go go person. I will try some of these new things. These were some really great ideas I will def share.
I hope they support you in getting some well deserved rest, Tanya.
These are great suggestions. I definitely want to incorporate a few more of them into my routine. Had to laugh at Flora’s comment, above, as I do love a good BBC murder mystery, too!
I liked Flora’s response too, but then I tend to fall asleep when I start to read or watch TV and then wake up on the way to bed. That is why I made this list and fortunately it worked for me. I hope it works for you as well.