As the middle of the semester approaches, stress is running high. Now more than ever, we need some type of balance in our lives. It is key to stay on top of your studies and tasks while still maintaining care of your body and mind. Finding a nighttime routine that works for you is the perfect way to do that.
Keep it Simple
Often when trying to create a routine to stick to, we try and jam everything that we possibly can want to do before it is time for bed. Remember that a nighttime routine is all about prepping yourself for a peaceful night of sleep. Stressing yourself out about not checking off your nightly to-do’s is the last thing you want.
Planning Out A Sleep Schedule
The first step for a beneficial routine is deciding what time you want to go to bed. From there you can determine how long you need to complete this routine, this allows for simplicity but effectiveness. When trying to curate a routine, pick three tasks to accomplish. Once you commit to these with ample time, start to add on.
Figure Out What YOU Need
Nighttime routines will vary from person to person- try not to compare your routine to anyone else’s! Sit down and think about what you need to wind down before bed. Are you a morning showerer or a night showerer? Do you need social interaction before bed, or would you rather have alone time? Ask yourself these questions to see what you need.
Something for the Body
One important step in any night routine is getting yourself ready for bed. This will look different for everybody. Some examples include doing your nightly skincare, tidying up your room or getting into a matching pajama set. One of your nightly to-do’s should include some form of self-care to relax you before bed. Make this as simple or complex as you need.
Something for the Mind
Next, you want to choose something to enrich your brain before bed. Chances are you have had a long day; now is the time to devote your thinking to something you enjoy. This could be writing in your planner to prep for the day ahead. It can also be listening to a podcast, reading a book or watching a YouTube video. Challenge yourself to boost your mind before resting it.
Something for the Soul
Finally, end your day with something that makes you feel good. You can calm your mind with meditation or prayer. Another simple task is journaling or writing down some things that you are grateful for. This is a great way to close out your day on a positive note.
Now that you have some ideas, get to work on the perfect nighttime routine. Remember that it is all about making yourself feel relaxed, prepared for a good night of sleep and ready for the day ahead. A good nighttime routine can make a world of difference, regardless of how chaotic your day was.