You’ve been dreaming about going back to bed since you left your sanctuary that morning. So, when you finally climb into your bed, excited to drift off to slumber land, you're wide awake! Your brain is flying through a mental to-do list. “Did you remember to book that appointment”? Then another “What do I gift my best-friend for her birthday?”.
It’s one of those nights sleep seems a faraway possibility. No matter what you do, you can’t switch off. Does this sound familiar? We’ve all been there. Here are our top 5 bedtime routines to help you catch some extra zzz’s.
1. Write it down
Enter the worry journal. Michael J. Breus, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist specialising in sleep disorders and treatments is a big proponent of the practice because "it's a great way to get thoughts out of your head before bed." He suggests designating columns that are meant for things you “need to take care of”, things you “can’t forget to do” and "things you’re worried about”. Write down all your thoughts or worries that fall into these categories. Make sure to leave space for problem-solving ideas.
If journaling just before bed a gratitude list is super conducive to sleeping well. Send out some positive vibes!
2. IT'S IN THE TEA
Not only is having a warm cup of tea a soothing ritual to help you mentally prepare for bed but some flavonoids found in herbal and floral teas can help induce sleepiness. Deitea Bonne Nuit is peace and relaxation in a cup, combining passionflower, chamomile, lavender and hibiscus flower.
Tea goes perfectly with: The Blair Nightshirt
3. Relax and unwind
Even though we’re big advocates of no screen time or social media one hour before bed we do find the following apps very useful in assisting the unwinding process.
Slow Radio an antidote to today’s frenzied world. Listen to the sounds of birds, mountain climbing, monks chatting as you go about your day.
Headspace guided meditations for sleeping and relaxing.
Smiling Mind lovely Australian mindfulness meditations to experience.
Not a fan of apps? We love the following exercises.
4-7-8 breathing techniques are designed to bring the body into a state of deep relaxation.
Yoga Nidra an ancient yogic practice in the form of guided relaxation.
Get your relax on with: Our favourite Long PJ Sets
4. Fiction is a necessity
Reading a book before bed is a known stress reducer and helps your body get used to a routine. Brilliant for distracting your brain with new information or someone else's story, it can take your mind off of your own troubles.
So, switch off the technology a bit earlier and incorporate one of our favourite books into your routine.
Where the Crawdads Sing about an isolated girl who finds education and solace in nature.
Boy Swallows Universe about crime, magic, fate and coming of age in 1980’s Australia.
City of Girls the Eat, Pray, Love author’s romp through 1940s Manhattan is a glorious, multilayered celebration of womanhood.
Curl up in: The Lily Pyjama Set Short
5. a podcast is THE NEW BEDTIME STORY
Not in the mood to read? Let someone read to you. Our favourite option is the Sleepy podcast where Otis Gray reads classic stories to help listeners go to sleep, think Alice in Wonderland and The Secret Garden.
Our other go-to relaxing options are Nocturne and Stories from the Border of Sleep.
Sweet dreams x
