We all know how important a good morning routine is for your health and productivity. But something that’s less talked about, but equally as important, is a good healthy night routine.

I know what you’re thinking, after a long day the last thing you may want to do is commit to a routine. You just want to relax. BUT! There are so many benefits to a night routine, including:

• A better night’s sleep
• A smoother morning that will lead to more productivity 
• More energy and a sharper brain throughout the next day

So let me share with you some of my healthy habits I've built up to get a good night's sleep.

 

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Bedtime routine

1. I set an alarm for the time I want to start getting ready for bed, and when I want to go to actually go to sleep. This just makes sure that I have enough time to wind down and get the 7-8 hours of sleep I need. I always aim to go to bed early so that I can wake up early and have a productive day. (I’ll admit this doesn’t always happen, but hey I try!)
2. I tidy up. I take time to put away or clean things I’ve used during the day. It makes me feel relaxed and in control. And waking up to a clean space instantly boosts my mood.
3. Take a nightcap. Studies have shown booze may help you sleep, but it actually robs you of a good-quality sleep. So rather than have a glass of wine, I like to have warm water or caffeine-free tea to relax me.
4. Fourth, I make a to-do list for tomorrow. Doing tasks and ticking off boxes gives me soo much satisfaction. So I always write out my daily priorities the night before - work tasks, chores, shopping, exercise etc. So when I wake up I’m ready to go and tick those boxes off!
5. Fifth, hygiene. I take a warm shower, brush my teeth, wash my face, do my skincare etc. The usual self-care that makes me feel good about myself after a tiring day.
6. Sixth, stretching or meditation. Whether I’ve been sitting at my desk all day, or I’ve gone out and about, I always end the day stretching my muscles and my mind before I hop into bed.
7. Seventh, I wind down with a book or tv show. Just an episode of my favourite show or a few pages of a book. I make sure to set a certain time limit for because I could honestly spend HOURS bingeing a show if I’m not careful.
8. Lastly, I reflect on my day. I always like to write down (or even just take mental note) of the things I wish had gone better, the good things that happened, and one thing that I was thankful for that day. Writing it down lets it all out and helps me not be up all night overthinking and full of worries!

There you have it! It may seem like a lot, but most of them only take 5 to 10 minutes each. And of course, this is just my idea of a night routine - you make up your own, depending on what works for you!

Obviously, with any routine, it takes repetition and dedication. But sooner or later you will reap the rewards of making that extra effort for your mental and physical health.