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If your day is a whirlwind of meetings, errands, and after work activities then you probably find it difficult to relax and fall asleep.
Many people that are juggling the demands of work and home find that their sleep suffers and they never truly feel rested. They awake each day, exhausted from the previous day’s activities. They toss and turn all night thinking about everything they have to do or about the events of the day. Without a good night’s sleep, the body and mind never really have time to recuperate and rejuvenate. You will be more likely to get sick, you will overeat junk food in an effort to stay alert, and your mental acuity will suffer. Your attention span will be diminished and you will be more stressed and angered at the little aggravations of the day. If you find it difficult to switch from being in busy mode during the day to going to sleep, then you could benefit from a nighttime ritual.
Having a nighttime ritual in place is a proven method for fighting insomnia and for getting the rest that your body and mind requires to function at an optimum level. A nighttime ritual relaxes your body and calms your mind.
Follow these steps to establish your own nighttime ritual.
1. Turn off all electronics. It has been proven in numerous studies that spending the last 30 minutes before bedtime away from anything electronics will help you fall asleep faster and get a better night’s rest.
2. Read quietly or meditate. Spend a few moments before bedtime on quiet activities such as reading or reflection. Meditation or prayer is a great way to relax the mind and to reflect on the things in your life that you are grateful for.
3. Take a bath. A soothing, warm bath just before bedtime will help you to relax. You can enjoy the calm sensation of being in the bath and let all the stresses of the day just float away.
4. Practice relaxing Yoga or stretches. The goal with a nighttime Yoga practice is relaxing and calming. Focus on poses that will lead to a better night’s rest and relieve the tension of the day. If you have a gentle stretching routine, then focus your attention on your stretches and feel the stress leaving your body.
5. Write in your journal. Record positive things in your journal or list what you are grateful for in your life. Focus on the good and wonderful things present in your life.
6. Personalize your ritual. Your nighttime ritual can be as unique as you are. Try to focus on including relaxing and restful activities to help you transition from your hectic day to the ease and calm of sleep.
Look out for my free ebook - How to Hygge your space, to make you night time rituals cozy and comfortable.
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