Many of you don’t allow yourselves proper sleep and it shows. Sleep is super important, and anyone who says otherwise is lying. Seriously, whoever decided people were not meant to hibernate, we need to talk! I am passionate about proper sleep, and I’m here to recruit you to the sweet dreams team.
First things first, clean your room. A clean room makes it easier to sleep — trust me, it just feels better. Take a few minutes and make sure everything’s put away. Make your bed! Sleeping in a made bed with crisp sheets is the equivalent of pure happiness in my books. Cleanliness will make all the difference.
Next up, shower! I like to shower in the evening and just pretend I’m washing away all my problems. A nice hot shower feels great and can help you calm your mind before bed. Exfoliate and moisturize your body to feel brand new! After you shower, make sure to prep your hair for the next day. Whether it’s wet or dry, braid it or style it so you can wake up with a manageable do.
Skin care is also essential. Do not punish your skin by going to bed with the day’s dirt and makeup still caked on; instead, make sure to wash and moisturize your face. Maybe even treat yourself to a mask? I recommend Lush. Check out my skin care article if you’re looking to switch up your routine! Brush, wash and FLOSS your teeth — that dazzling smile is not going to take care of itself.
Sleep with an eye mask and in complete darkness. Your body will not get proper sleep if you have lights on, or light coming in through your windows, so make sure to block it all out to get that quality rest.
Get all your thoughts out on paper. Write all your to-dos, concerns and worries out on paper so you don’t have to carry them with you into your dreams. Also, take a minute to reflect on the highs and lows of your day. Keeping a gratitude journal right before bed can really set a positive tone before closing your eyes.
Another idea is to crack a window for a bit and then light some incense. This always helps me relax. I also recommend a mattress heater for the colder nights. Going into the spring, this is probably not at the top of your shopping list, but is still something to keep in mind.
Drink a glass of water before bed and have one ready on your nightstand. This is so you don’t have to go hunt one down at three in the morning when you’re too parched and sleepy to move.
Try to avoid technology and screens leading up to bed, and instead try reading or writing which will relax your mind a lot easier and is arguably better for you.
Set out your clothes out and pack your bags for the next day so you can go to bed feeling prepared. This will make your mornings easier, and therefore more enjoyable. Also put on proper pyjamas! None of this falling asleep in your day clothes bullshit. You deserve proper comfy, pyjamas.
Finally set your alarms and put your phone out of reach so that you won’t be tempted to go on it before morning and you’ll have to physically get out of bed to turn it off!