Getting a good night’s sleep does not just happen for most people and it is something I am intentional about. For years, I would stay up scrolling on my phone, thinking I could “wind down” that way, only to find myself restless and unable to sleep deeply. Over time, I have developed a nighttime routine that truly sets me up for a consistent good night’s rest, and I wanted to share it in case you are also looking for simple but effective ways to improve your sleep. Here is my tried and true nighttime routine for better sleep.
My Nighttime Routine for Better Sleep
Set a Consistent Bedtime
I try to go to bed around the same time every night—even on weekends. While it may sound small, my body has responded well to the consistency. Sticking to a routine has helped regulate my internal clock so I actually feel sleepy when it is time for bed. I also start winding down at the same time each night and that further helps regulate my routine. A bonus point to having velcro dogs is they also know when bed time is so they nudge us along to be sure we stick to our routine.
Dim the Lights & Create a Calm Environment
About an hour before bed, I dim the lights and focus on making my space feel cozy. Sometimes that means lighting a candle or switching to a soft lamp (like this one or this one) instead of harsh overhead lighting. Creating a calming environment signals to my brain that it is time to slow down and relax. I am also particular about my bed linens—I always use a silk pillowcase, this set of sheets I swear by, and a nice duvet with a linen cover in cooler months or a lightweight quilt during warmer months.
A Warm Shower with My Skincare Routine
from Le Méridien Essex Chicago
I find that a quick shower before bed helps me feel fresh and relaxed. Pairing that with a simple skincare routine is both practical and soothing. It feels like I am closing out the day and preparing myself for rest. I also use heavier moisturizer, a nice hand cream, a thick foot cream and heel socks, and this lip serum underneath my trusty Aquaphor.
Magnesium + Hydration Boost
For a while, I tried taking melatonin before bed, but I did not notice much improvement in my sleep. Last year, I added magnesium to my nighttime routine for better sleep, taking it in the evenings with my other daily vitamins, and I found it to be much more effective. Now, sipping a big glass of ice water and taking magnesium has become a simple, natural step that helps me relax and ease into rest.
Put the Phone Away
This one was the hardest habit to build and it made the biggest difference. I set my phone on the charger out of my reach at least 30 minutes before bed. Without the temptation to scroll, I fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. I also am finding myself not reaching for it first thing in the morning either, which has been a big help with waking up, too!
A Cup of Herbal Tea
Instead of a late-night snack or glass of wine, I opt for a caffeine-free herbal tea. This sleepy time tea is my go-to, and it helps me wind down. I travel with this as well, so that I can stay in my routine even when I am out of my normal space.
Journaling or Reading
Before bed, I like to write down any lingering thoughts or to-dos so I do not carry them into sleep with me. I keep a notepad and pen on my nightstand to jot down any thoughts or ideas that come to help free my mental space. On other nights, I read a few pages of a book because that helps me ease out of “on-the-go mode” and into “rest mode.”
Sleep-Friendly Touches
Finally, I make sure my space is set up for good sleep: blackout curtains, a comfortable pillow, and keeping the room cool (around 68 degrees is ideal for me). I also use a facial humidifier and keep my portable fan nearby in case I get too warm in the middle of the night. Other small details that I swear by are breathable pajamas (these and these are favorites), this self-heating eye mask, or this cooling eye mask. These small details add up to better rest.
Final Thoughts on My Nighttime Routine for Better Sleep
Sleep used to feel elusive for me; however, having a nighttime routine has been a game changer. Of course, not every night is perfect, sticking to these habits most of the time has helped me fall asleep faster and wake up more refreshed. If you have been struggling with sleep, try picking one or two of these steps to start with—you might be surprised at how much of a difference it makes.
