The holiday season is full of magic—gatherings, delicious food, and twinkling lights. But let’s be honest, it’s also packed with long to-do lists, emotional moments, and a whole lot of overwhelm. Whether you’re navigating this season with family, missing loved ones, or juggling it all for the second year in a “new normal,” it can feel like chaos is unavoidable.
And when life gets busy, what’s the first thing to go? Sleep.
But here’s the truth: losing sleep doesn’t just leave you tired—it makes everything harder. You feel more stressed, your body aches, and even your brain feels foggy. The good news? Establishing an evening routine can help you unwind, calm your mind, and protect your rest, so you wake up feeling stronger and more capable of handling the season.
Let’s explore simple ways to create a calming bedtime routine that actually works.
Why an Evening Routine Matters
Your body thrives on rhythms, but the holiday season often disrupts those natural cycles—late nights, too much screen time, and lingering stress can leave you staring at the ceiling when you finally hit the pillow. An evening routine sends a clear message to your brain and body: “It’s time to rest now.”
A consistent wind-down routine not only helps you fall asleep faster but also improves the quality of your sleep. That means better energy, a clearer mind, and less stress the next day—things we all need, especially during this time of year.
How to Build Your Evening Routine
- Start with a Set Bedtime
Decide when you want to go to bed and stick with it as much as possible. A consistent bedtime trains your brain to know when it’s time to wind down. Set a reminder on your phone about 30-60 minutes beforehand so you can start easing into your routine.
2. Try Calming Practices Before Bed
Here are a few simple ideas to help you relax and shift into rest mode:
- Drink Calming Tea
A warm cup of chamomile, peppermint, or even plain hot water with lemon can be incredibly soothing for your body.
- Focus on Your Breath
Try this: Sit or lie down comfortably. Inhale through your nose for 5 counts, pause briefly, then exhale through your nose for 7 counts. Let your exhale feel soft and slow. Repeat this for 10 breaths, focusing on releasing tension with every exhale.
- Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani)
This gentle yoga pose calms your nervous system and supports circulation. Sit close to a wall, swing your legs up, and lie on your back with your arms resting at your sides. Breathe deeply for 5 minutes (or longer if you like).
- Massage Lotion into Your Feet
Grab your favorite lotion or oil and give your feet some love. Spend 5 minutes on each foot, using firm but gentle pressure. Not only does it feel amazing, but it also helps release stress and tension. Bonus tip: Slip on cozy socks afterward!
3. Set Your Space for Sleep
Your environment matters. Here are two simple ways to make your bedroom a restful haven:
- Dim the lights an hour before bed to signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down.
- Put away your phone or tablet. Blue light from screens interferes with your body’s natural sleep hormones. Opt for a book, breathing exercise, or journaling instead.
The Ripple Effect of Good Sleep
When you give yourself permission to slow down at night, you’ll notice the benefits ripple into the rest of your life. Better sleep means you’ll feel:
- More energized and clear-headed as you move through the holiday rush.
- Calmer and more present during gatherings and celebrations.
- Stronger and more resilient, so you can face challenges without feeling overwhelmed.
It’s not about perfection—it’s about small, consistent steps that help you show up as your best self, even in the busiest season.
This holiday season, gift yourself the calm and restoration of a good night’s sleep. By creating an evening routine with simple practices like breathing, or movement, you’ll give your mind and body the care they need to recharge.
Start small—choose one or two tips that speak to you, and see how it feels. By the time your head hits the pillow, you’ll be ready for restful sleep and a more peaceful tomorrow.
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