How I end my day is just as important as how I start it. I haven’t always had the best bedtime rituals, but when I’m on a good streak, there is no stopping me. There are many times throughout the year (anxiety and otherwise) where I don’t sleep well, at all. As much as I love sleep there are times I’m fighting to get a wink (I mean almost tears in my eyes because I just want to go to sleep and I can’t).
I feel and operate my best (read not cranky and alert) when I have 8 hours of sleep. It’s always my goal. I’m definitely the “auntie” who doesn’t go anywhere or do anything without looking at the clock and counting down how much sleep she can get.
I try my best to have some habits and routines set in place as that’s how I operate best. Here are some things that have helped me get the best rest ever.
No Eating After 9pm
For years it has been very rare for me to eat after 9pm. I don’t WANT to stay up too late, and if I eat late I feel that I have to be up that much longer for my food to properly digest. I never eat and lay down, that’s how you get heartburn and acid reflux. I don’t have either and I’d like to keep it that way.
Prayer/Gratitude
Talking to God before bed is always a great thing to get me relaxed and ready to rest, but I’m definitely like all those memes about as soon as you get good into the prayer, you’re knocked out. THAT’S ME. But hey, I’d rather fall asleep talking to God than someone who doesn’t deserve my time.
Cup of Tea
A cup of chamomile tea or sleepy time tea just really puts me where I need to be.
A Good Book
I don’t know about you, but you want me to fall asleep, hand me some pages to read. It’s not that I don’t like reading, but there is just something about a few pages before bed that put me out.
Pillow Mist
Pillow mists have changed my life. A few mists on my pillow and comforter (I like to be wrapped like I’m in a cocoon) and it’s off to LaLa land. I generally pick them up from Marshalls, TJ Maxx or Homegoods for under $10.
Bubble Bath/Hot Shower
Some of the best sleep I get is after a steamy bubble bath and epsom salt soak. Calgon, Calgon, take me away.
No TV
Now this is the hardest one for me. I’ve had a television in my bedroom ever since I was 8 years old. It has been a staple for me going to sleep for over 28 years. While I need it to fall asleep, I can’t stay sleep if the tv is on. Yes I set timers (when I remember) but it’s not the same as just shutting everything off and going to sleep. If I do watch something before bed, it has to be something soothing and can’t be too much going on. Don’t need any bad energy before I close my eyes.
Phone on DND
My friends hate me for it, but my phone stays on DND. There is nothing more infuriating than when I’m trying to sleep and I can’t and I’m interrupted by a notification. And 9 times out of 10 they don’t want anything.
Snuggling Chloe
Snuggling my puppy always helps, but now she’s feeling herself and doesn’t always like to sleep with mommy (sigh) but when she does it’s super comforting and helps me fall asleep.
I’d love to hear if you have any tips or tricks on how you get the best rest. Feel free to share in the comments.
