Quiet Time: Creating A Bedtime Ritual

If you are like me, you might be glued to the computer or TV right before bedtime. Researchers and common sense tells us that this might not be the best way to give our minds a chance to unwind. We often find ourselves thinking about our never ending to-do list or that project we have been putting off that was due last week. It is important to take at least an hour before our heads hit the pillow to just relax.

If you are a reader, choose a religious or self help book as opposed to a suspenseful murder mystery or a romance novel. The goal is to unwind and to not think about negative or complicated things. If possible, read a book based on the most boring subject matter you can imagine like a dictionary. If you are a writer, perhaps journaling would be better for you to write down any thoughts you want to let go of before the day ends and another begins.

If you are feeling very adventurous, try thinking positive thoughts in sets of three’s. For example, you may think of 3 blessings of the day, 3 things you accomplished, and 3 things you would like to get done the following day. Maybe you would rather think of happy moments and good times that happened in the past. Try to picture yourself in that place and replay the whole scene in your head. Take a few deep breaths and think of the ideal scene that you could see yourself in for an extended period of time.

When my mind is racing late at night, pampering myself usually helps me to relax. Whether I paint my nails, give myself a facial, or style my hair, I immediately feel more peaceful than before. If you have a four legged furry friend, you could brush them and it will help both of you to unwind. Just having a pet in your house is said to be very calming and soothing, almost therapeutic. Unless, of course they are constant barkers then you are out of luck! The bottom line is just to find something that rests your mind.

By: skindeep13

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Lyla Feldman writes articles about striving towards a healthy lifestyle. Some of her favorite passions include writing about energy drinks and natural sleep aids.