Sleep has always been a nightmare for me (literally). Over the past few months I’ve been trying to be a bit more intentional about my bedtime routine and sleep habits, and I wanted to share the things I’ve been incorporating that are actually (hopefully) making a difference.
Magnesium Before Bed
One of the first things I tried was taking magnesium before bed. It’s supposed to help calm your muscles and your mind, and I’ve definitely noticed that it helps me feel more relaxed in the evenings. Even if I’m stressed or my mind is busy, it seems to take the edge off and makes it easier to drift off.
Baths and Self-Care
I’ve also been making an effort to take a bath before bed. Just chilling for a little while, listening to a podcast or watching YouTube, and letting my mind slow down is such a simple but effective way to wind down. It’s a nice way to separate the day from bedtime and signal to your body that it’s time to relax.
Screens and Blue Light
Phones are a big culprit for keeping me awake, so I’ve been making an effort to get off my phone at least an hour before bed. It makes a bigger difference than I expected and means my mind isn’t racing when I finally switch the lights off.
Needle Mat and Grounding
I’ve been experimenting with a needle mat, or acupressure mat, which is surprisingly relaxing once you get used to it. I’ll lie on it for a few minutes and it really helps release tension in my back and shoulders. Alongside that, I use a grounding mat, which is meant to help balance your energy and calm your nervous system. Both feel like little rituals that tell my body it’s time to slow down.
Eye Mask
A good eye mask has become non-negotiable for me. Even if the room is totally dark, putting one on feels like I’m stepping into a proper sleep space. It’s such a simple addition, but it really helps me settle more quickly and stay asleep longer, especially in the morning.
Consistent Sleep Schedule
Finally, I’m trying to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. It’s not always perfect, but having a routine helps train my body to expect sleep and makes falling asleep and waking up much easier. Even if I don’t feel tired right away, sticking to a schedule has made a noticeable difference in my overall energy levels.
