How often do you set aside a bit of time to decompress before tucking into bed? We take our sleep very seriously around here, so we know that establishing a consistent bedtime routine is vital to easing into a peaceful night's rest. With that in mind, here are some of our top tips for improving your nightly pre-sleep routine!
Have a Quiet Moment in the Tub
Your body temperature naturally dips at night, a dip which is known to help you transition into sleep. When soaking in a hot bath, you replicate and accelerate this natural process; your temperature rises—and then drops quickly. The cool-down period is what's known to make you feel sleepy, which is no surprise to those who are familiar with the pure relaxation that comes from a good soak. Add some relaxing scents to the mix, like our new Au Lit Cotton Flower line, to really make it feel like a spa experience.
TIP: If you’re not big on baths, a quick and easy facial steam is a great way to have a mini spa moment before a good night’s sleep. Check out this easy DIY recipe for a Rosemary & Chamomile facial steam by Hello Glow (that only requires a kettle, a bowl, a towel, and herbs!)
Organize Your Thoughts
Tossing and turning is one of the most common culprits causing lack of sleep, and racing thoughts are usually at the helm. Thinking and worrying about all the tasks you have ahead can make it hard to get some shut-eye. Making a to-do list is a great way to put your mind at ease and will allow you to re-visit these tasks in the morning. As simple as it sounds, the proof is in the science. According to a study in The Journal of Experimental Psychology, "people who wrote down future tasks they wanted to accomplish fell asleep faster than those who wrote about things they’d done that day." So get to writing!
Enter a Calm State of Mind
Spend the last bit of your evening doing a relaxing activity. It’s been said that the blue light emitted from TV and phone screens can increase alertness and reset the body’s internal clock – which is quite the opposite of what you want at the end of the day. Instead of watching a show or movie, why not grab a book? There's nothing we love more than snuggling up with a good book in our super-comfy sheets. Top that off with some cozy PJs and a hot cup of herbal tea (chamomile tea is known to induce sleep!) and you’ll be dreaming in no time.
What are your bedtime rituals? We want to hear, tag us on Instagram at @AuLitFineLinens or tweet us at @AuLitFineLinens.
