Wellness Wednesday | Nighttime routines
Each week we’re sharing top tips from our team on how to get the most out of your wellness routine. This week: We’re talking about nighttime routines. The moments you spend right before you hit the pillow can impact your productivity and energy for the days ahead.
We spend half our lives sleeping, and yet so many of us struggle to fall (and stay) asleep. We push through the grogginess and chug cups of coffee because the show must go on, right?
Another day will always be waiting for us when we open our eyes, but the time we take to recover at night sets the rhythm for how productive, attentive, and present we are during the day. Sleep is arguably one of the most important things we need to live a healthy life, and we ought to create a more meaningful nighttime routine to ensure we sleep well and set ourselves up for success in the days to come.
Prep for tomorrow.
Take 5 minutes to craft your to-do list for tomorrow. Thinking through your to-do’s before bed helps to make sure you aren’t thinking about them as you’re trying to sleep. A good night’s sleep is key to waking up refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead, so rather than stare at the ceiling brewing over all the things you need to get done, write them out instead. You’ll wake up ready to check things off as soon as you wake up.
Tidy up.
There are studies that show clutter is more likely to distract us than a clean space. That’s why creative spaces are usually chaotic and messy — it ushers in new ideas and inspiration. Whether you’re a creative or not, keep your sleeping space tranquil and tidy, because sleep is the time to escape from new thoughts and theories, so we can focus simply on rest and recovery. A quick organization of your desk or throwing your laundry in the hamper can be enough — it only takes a few minutes to positively impact our mental health. Studies show that clutter can increase stress, which can seriously affect our sleep. Plus, it’s one less chore to do in the morning.
Stay consistent.
When you create a pattern, over time your brain subconsciously picks up on what steps are next. Going to bed at the same time every night is crucial for your nighttime routine. Your body will naturally recognize that at 10 pm, after a 5-minute meditation, it’s time to get some shut-eye. Your body will find it easier to drift off to sleep when you’re on a schedule, so you’re more likely to get the hours you need. Just one night of short sleep can put you in a bad mood, decrease productivity, and make it harder to sleep the next night.
Clear out the clutter and make room for a clean space — a better night’s sleep will follow. Schedule an at-home clean with Alfred today.
