There was a time when I didn’t have much of a nighttime routine, or at least not a good one. I’d spend hours scrolling on my phone and then wonder why I couldn’t fall asleep. The next morning, I’d wake up tired, irritable, and stuck in the same cycle. Eventually, I realized a better morning started with a better night and that meant doing the one thing I’d been avoiding: getting off my phone. It didn’t happen overnight (no pun intended), but with consistency and discipline, disconnecting from my phone was the step that helped me build a better nighttime routine.
Putting Down My Phone
The most challenging part of my nighttime routine was putting down my phone. Somehow, everything seemed more interesting as the day grew darker. I’d come across an article and want to read more, or questions would pop into my mind just as I was getting ready for bed. Some nights, I gave in to my curiosity and regretted it the next morning. It was hard to disconnect, but when I finally did, I began to develop better sleep hygiene and felt the benefit the next day. The thing that helped me stay consistent was getting off my phone at least an hour before bedtime.
Adding Joy
Once I committed to getting off my phone at a set time, I could choose how to spend my evenings. I decided to end every night with something funny, so no matter how bad my day had been, I had something to look forward to. Right now, Abbott Elementary is my go-to show because it has everything I need to unwind before bed. Laughing is a great stress reliever, and watching something lighthearted helps me let go of the day. By focusing on this simple pleasure, I can allow my brain to relax, which ultimately helps me sleep better.
Finding Your Own Routine
Now that I’ve shared a glimpse of my nighttime routine, I’d love to hear how you like to unwind before bed. For some, it might mean putting your phone away an hour early, watching your favorite show, journaling, or reading a book. Anything that helps you relax is worth considering for your bedtime routine.