nighttime mindset routine tips
Recently, I wrote about my top tips to start your morning off right, with the right mindset to go into your day!
Haven't read it yet? Check it out here!
Now, we're talking about what you can do to END your day in the best headspace possible so that you can:
Get better quality sleep (so you can fall asleep AND stay asleep)
Wake up feeling refreshed
Wake up with a positive mindset
Improve your performance at work or school
And support your physical health (e.g. your immune system)
It's easy to overlook your nightly routine, but after trying out some of these ideas — you may fall in love with having one!
Start by getting comfortable!
Before anything, change out of your daytime/work clothes and get cozy!
This step is crucial because it helps to differentiate your work day from your "you" time at home. For example, if you wake up at 7am to get ready, work from 8am - 5pm, but stay in the same outfit you wore all day throughout the evening, it can feel like your work day never really ended.
Getting into something comfortable might seem silly, but it's a form of self-care! It's like flipping a switch from work/school mode to night mode.
Enjoy some quiet time.
Does this sound like you?
You get home, (maybe) work out with your favorite music, turn on the TV and binge for a while before/after dinner, scroll through your phone, and when it gets late, you go to sleep.
What if you added at least 15 minutes of quiet time somewhere in there?
Our brains never really get a chance to turn off when we are constantly plugged in. This can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Quiet time is so important so our minds can get a break and prepare for a good night's rest.
If you're thinking "but what would I do, just sit there in complete silence?" — keep reading!
Read, write, doodle, play music — do ANYTHING creative!
During your "quiet time", you don't actually need to sit in uncomfortable silence and wait until the 15 minutes are up.
This is actually a perfect time to get your creative juices flowing, or just generally engage your brain, in other ways that don't involve Netflix or social media!
It's also a great way to get out of your head after a long stressful day. For example, by reading, you can immerse yourself in a story and completely forget about your to-do list. By drawing, playing an instrument, journaling, or even dancing, you can express yourself & release some built-up stress.
Prepare for the next day.
If you dread the morning ahead, it's time to do something about it!
If there is ANYTHING you could do the night before, do it. It's 100% worth not rushing through your morning. Make lunch, pick your outfit, and pack your bag at the very least. I've personally stayed awake at night overthinking all the things I would have to do in the morning...until I decided I didn't have to do that to myself!
Stay off your screen at least 30 minutes before falling asleep.
If you're starting to feel sleepy, here's what you shouldn't do: continue scrolling through socials.
When you think to yourself "Hm, I could probably go to bed soon!" — take that as your sign to put your phone away and let your body slow down so you can naturally fall asleep.
You'll save yourself from a blue-light-induced headache AND a racing mind when you're desperate to fall asleep.
Prioritize your nighttime routine!
It's no secret I love routines. And it's not because routines make for good content — it's because it's LIFE-changing!
My mindset, mental health, and physical health are so much better when I stick to my routines.
Sure, I have days where I wake up too late or go out at night with friends and don't get to do my entire daily ritual!
But as long as you're generally consistent, you will find that routines DO set you up for success. And remember: yours doesn't have to be the same as someone else's. Your rituals and routines should serve you and make you feel good!
If you loved these tips, send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to know if they've helped you!
