Changing up Your Bedtime Routine

Kids aren't the only ones who need good bedtime routines. In fact, practicing good nighttime habits and getting a restful night's sleep are both essential in preparing you for a productive, energized work day. Although you may already avoid nighttime caffeine and exercise, a few sneaky habits might be affecting your ability to get much-needed rest. Change up your bedtime routine to make every night a restful one.

Keep Your Bed Space Neat and Clutter-Free

While you don't need to make your bed every morning, keeping your pillows, blankets and sheets in order can help you get comfortable faster when you're ready to sleep. Avoid laying clothing and other items on your bed throughout the day, and do a quick once-over of the area first thing each morning.

Stop Checking Your Phone at Bedtime

The importance of turning off computers and TVs before bedtime has become common knowledge, but smartphones make it easier than ever to spend time on technology while in bed. Even if you only commit to quickly checking your social media accounts, it's easy to get carried away and spend hours scrolling through Facebook. Consider leaving your phone in another room as part of your bedtime routine, or stow it in a drawer to resist temptation. If you have an iPhone with iOS 9.3 or higher, put it on night shift mode. This feature adjusts the screen's color display so that if you do check your phone before bed, it doesn't heavily affect your ability to fall asleep.

Stay Away From Anxiety-Inducing Thoughts and Entertainment

From video games and crime dramas to having a heated discussion with a friend, anything that makes your heart and mind race can kill your bedtime routine. Stay away from any activities that are too exciting or stressful, opting for positive, relaxing vibes. For example, try watching a comedy or listening to peaceful music.

Don't Drink Too Many Fluids

Staying hydrated is important, but drinking anything before going to sleep can mess up your bedtime routine. Avoid fluids in the two hours before bed to avoid waking up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. That way, you're more likely to enjoy an uninterrupted, healthy night of sleep.

Don't Skip Relaxation Time

If you go straight to bed after finishing up work, studying or cleaning the house, your mind and body have a hard time getting into sleep mode. Spend 30 minutes doing light stretching, reading, taking a warm bath or engaging in any other winding-down ritual to get ready to sleep. What you choose to do at night certainly affects your performance the next day, as taking care of your health can make you a more productive worker.

Activities such as checking your phone and drinking a glass of water before bed may seem natural, but they can really mess up your bedtime routine. While adopting these nighttime habits can take some work, a better night's sleep is always worth the effort.

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