“The Benefits of a Bedtime Routine”

The Benefits of a Bedtime Routine

Getting a good night’s sleep is important for your physical and mental health. If you’re having trouble sleeping, or want to try and improve your sleep quality, developing a bedtime routine may help.

How Does It Help?

Establishing a regular bedtime routine helps you to stay consistent with your sleep. This can help you to not only sleep better, but also to wake up feeling more refreshed.

Having a regular nighttime routine can:

• Reduce stress – a relaxing activity before bed can help you to relax and unwind.
• Combat insomnia – a bedtime routine helps to move your body into the habit of sleeping.
• Prevent distractions – completing certain tasks or activities before bed can help minimise distractions during the night.
• Increase alertness – being consistent with a bedtime routine will help your body get used to sleeping and waking up at specific times, making you feel more alert during the day.

Tips for Creating a Bedtime Routine

Creating a bedtime routine is all about finding activities that work for you. Here are some ideas:

• Create a calming atmosphere – this could include turning off your phone and screens, dimming the lights and lighting a candle or essential oil.
• Do some light exercise – activities like stretching, going for a walk or doing some yoga can help prepare your body for sleep.
• Create a sleepytime ritual – this could be reading a book, writing in a journal or practising mindfulness.
• Try some breathing exercises – breathing can help you to slow down, relax and prepare for sleep.

Creating a bedtime routine can be a great way to help improve your sleep quality. Find activities that work for you and try to make them part of your nightly routine.