How To Develop A Sleeping Routine That Works For You

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Sleep can be an elusive thing for many people. The pressures of modern life and a desire to live life in the fast lane make FOMO a real thing. Not surprisingly, working long hours and chasing a hectic social life will impact your sleep. And then we have the double-edged sword of electronic devices in the bedroom because who doesn’t like to scroll Insta or TikTok in bed?

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Why is a Sleep Routine Important?

The problem with not having a sleep routine is that a sleep debt eventually catches up with you. You might be able to get away with very little sleep in your 20s, but over time, it’s hazardous to your health. It can also lead to oversleeping the following day – getting too much REM sleep is also damaging.

By creating a consistent bedtime routine, you can enjoy better quality sleep, actually get into a deep sleep and wake up feeling refreshed instead of like an extra from the set of The Walking Dead. It will help combat anxious thoughts and boost your memory. Read all about what is deep sleep here.

Here’s what you need to include in a good sleep routine.

Leave the Devices at the Bedroom Door

Are you the type with a TV in your bedroom, so you can binge Netflix until the early hours? Sorry, it’s time to get rid of the TV, along with your smartphone, tablet, laptop, and other devices. Electronic devices emit blue light, which interferes with our circadian rhythms. Ideally, try not to use electronic gadgets in the evening, but if this isn’t possible, at least use a nighttime filter.

Have a Relaxing Bath Before Bed

Baths are a time sap, so a lot of people skip baths in favour of quick showers. But baths are relaxing and a great way to wind down in the evening before bed. Schedule a long soak in the bath before you go to bed. Getting out of a hot bath will encourage your core to cool down quickly, thus preparing your body for sleep. Add some essential oils like lavender to aid the relaxation process.

Read a Book

Instead of staring at a screen all evening, or doom-scrolling your Facebook feed, take a book to bed and immerse yourself in fiction for a bit before sleep. Books are more relaxing than online viewing or social media, although it’s probably best to avoid reading crime fiction about serial killers unless you want unpleasant nightmares. Or hot, sexy romances. They are not conducive to sleep either.

Make Sure Your Bed is Comfy

With all the will in the world, if you try to sleep on an uncomfortable mattress, you will never get a good night’s sleep. You will find yourself tossing and turning for hours, trying to find a comfortable position, and then when you do finally fall asleep, you will most likely awaken with aches and pains.

It would help if you spent a little time researching to find the right one for you. Some people prefer firm mattresses, while others find a softer surface to sleep on and more comfortable; there are memory foam options, various types of spring options and even toppers.

Considering the amount of time you spend in your bed, you should make sure it is somewhere you actually enjoy being and doesn’t cause you pain. Simba has a wide range of mattresses to suit everyone. Comfort isn’t something that should be compromised, and a good night’s sleep is really the key to starting the day off on the right footing.

Drink a Mug of Herbal Tea

A mug of herbal tea should be an intrinsic part of your sleep routine. There are a few herbal blends that aid relaxation, including chamomile and valerian root tea. Look for special sleep-friendly blends that contain a few ingredients to aid sleep and see which ones you like best. Don’t drink tea too close to bedtime, however, or you’ll be disturbed by a trip to the bathroom an hour later.

Journal Your Worries Away

It’s impossible to get to sleep if your mind is churning over work or relationship stresses. Talking things out with a friend or loved one can be helpful, but journalling is also useful. Make a habit of writing things down in a journal before bed. This may help you sleep better.

Mindful Meditation

Some people swear by mindful meditation before bed. They say it helps them relax and release any stress they are carrying. Look up a YouTube video or two and give it a try.

Finally, be sure to keep your bedroom nice and tidy. Trying to sleep amid a mountain of clutter, 500 teddies, and clumps of cat hair will be difficult.