Creating a productive day starts the night before—how you wind down in the evening can be just as important as your morning routine. If you’re finding it hard to relax and get a restful night’s sleep, establishing an evening routine could be the answer. In this blog, I’ll share my personal evening routine that helps me unwind, relax, and prepare for a night of rejuvenation. Now, let’s be real: there are nights when I practically collapse into bed, too exhausted to follow any routine at all. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or seeking ways to enhance your well-being, these evening routines will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to rest—though some nights, sleep wins out over any routine, and that is fine!
Why Evening Routines Matter
Establishing a relaxing evening routine is key to improving your sleep quality and overall well-being. Much like a morning routine sets the tone for your day, a nighttime routine helps signal to your brain that it’s time to unwind and prepare for rest. By adopting simple routines, you can calm your mind, reduce stress, and enjoy deeper, more restful sleep.
Interesting Facts About Evening Routines
To further explore the benefits of an evening routine, here are some interesting facts that show how these practices can improve your sleep quality and overall well-being:
The Science of Sleep Cycles: Human sleep consists of multiple cycles, including REM (rapid eye movement), which is associated with vivid dreaming, and non-REM sleep, which encompasses deeper stages of rest. A consistent evening routine can help align your body’s internal clock, making it easier to transition between these cycles and enhancing overall sleep quality. For more detailed information about the importance of sleep, you can visit the NHLBI’s page on sleep deprivation and its effects on health NHLBI, NIH.
The Role of Light Exposure: Natural light exposure during the day helps regulate your circadian rhythm. Equally, reducing exposure to artificial light in the evening (especially blue light from screens) signals your brain that it’s time to produce melatonin, promoting better sleep.
Herbal Tea Benefits: Certain herbal teas, like chamomile and valerian root, not only promote relaxation but also contain compounds that may increase the production of sleep-inducing hormones. Drinking herbal tea as part of your evening routine can create a soothing experience that enhances sleep readiness.
Stretching Improves Sleep: Engaging in gentle stretches before bed not only relieves tension but also promotes the production of serotonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. This can lead to a more peaceful night’s sleep and a smoother transition into sleep.
1. Disconnect from Screens at Least an Hour Before Bed
It’s not always easy to disconnect from our devices, but doing so can significantly improve your sleep quality. Blue light emitted from screens—like your phone, laptop, or TV—mimics daylight, tricking your brain into staying alert by suppressing melatonin production, the hormone that regulates sleep. When melatonin levels drop, it becomes harder for your body to wind down, delaying your sleep cycle and affecting restfulness. To counter this, try disconnecting from screens at least an hour before bed. Use this time for a calming evening routine, such as reading a book or doing light stretches, to signal to your body that it’s time to relax.
Ways to Create a Cozy, Quiet Sleep Space:
- Power Down Devices: Turn off screens at least 60 minutes before bed to avoid blue light and digital distractions, setting the stage for relaxation.
- Relaxing Activities: Engage in calming practices like journaling, reading a book, or gentle meditation to help shift your mind from the day’s busyness.
- Soft Lighting: Dim the lights around your home to signal your body that it’s time to wind down.
2. Tidy Up Your Space
Taking a few minutes to tidy up before bed can create a sense of calm and order, making it easier to start your morning on a positive note. Simple habits like clearing the kitchen, loading the dishwasher, or wiping down surfaces not only keep your space clean but also contribute to a peaceful mindset. Waking up to a clutter-free home sets a refreshing tone for the day ahead.
Steps to Create a Calm Space:
- Clear Surfaces: Wipe down kitchen counters and store away any lingering items to instantly refresh the space.
- Quick Dish Load: Stack and load the dishwasher or hand-wash any remaining dishes to avoid a messy start in the morning.
- Tidy Your Living Area: Take a quick look around the living room, straightening accent pillows, folding throws, and putting away any items left out. A tidy space here can make a big difference when you wake up.
- Declutter Your Bedroom: Keep your bedroom, especially your nightstand, organized and free of clutter. A neat, calming bedroom setup promotes relaxation and eases you into rest.
This simple pre-bedtime routine serves as a “reset,” allowing you to wake up to a home that feels welcoming and organized. You’ll be surprised by how soothing it can feel as you wind down for the night!
3. Pamper Yourself with a Relaxing Skincare Routine
Your nighttime skincare routine is the perfect opportunity to practice self-care. Whether it’s been a light makeup day or a full glam look, this quick and easy nighttime skincare routine is ideal for winding down and getting that well-deserved rest—fast! Treat yourself to a calming skincare routine that not only leaves your skin radiant but also helps you slow down and unwind. Choose gentle, hydrating products that soothe the skin and create a peaceful atmosphere as you wrap up your day.
Quick and Easy Nighttime Skincare Routine to Try:
- First Cleanse: Start by using a gentle, hydrating cleanser to effectively lift away dirt and makeup.
- Second Cleanse: Follow up with a cleanser tailored to your skin’s needs, focusing on areas that require extra attention.
- Toner: Apply a toner to rebalance your skin’s pH and remove any residual impurities.
- Moisturizer: Finish with a nourishing—moisturizer is an essential part of any skincare routine. It softens the skin, locks in hydration, and enhances your skin’s overall appearance.
For a closer look at my favorite products and tips for a calming nighttime skincare routine, be sure to check out Wind Down Quickly: A Simple Nighttime Skincare Routine!
4. Set the Mood with Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy can be a powerful tool in creating a calming environment. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood are known for their relaxation benefits. By incorporating these scents into your evening routine, you can ease tension and create a peaceful atmosphere.
Ways to Integrate Aromatherapy:
- Essential Oil Diffuser: Use an essential oil diffuser with relaxing scents like lavender or chamomile to fill your space with calming aromas. I personally do not use one because it can be harmful for my cat, but those without pets could certainly benefit.
- Warm Bath: If you enjoy baths, add a few drops of essential oil to the water for a soothing experience.
- Aromatherapy Candle: Light an aromatherapy candle in your room while you read or relax, allowing the gentle fragrance to enhance your mood. Once again, be mindful of pets, as they are extremely sensitive to scents. I personally do not use candles in my home.
- Eucalyptus Shower Experience: For those who prefer showers, hang a bundle of fresh eucalyptus from your showerhead. As the warm water steams, it will release invigorating scents that can uplift your mood and promote relaxation.
5. Practice Gentle Evening Stretches
Incorporating light stretching into your evening routine can significantly ease muscle tension that builds up throughout the day. Gentle stretches not only help relax your body but also calm your mind, creating a peaceful transition as you prepare for restful sleep. Complementing your stretches with slow, deep breathing can further enhance this soothing experience.
Some of my simple favorites include Legs Up the Wall, Seated Spinal Twist, and Gentle Head Rolls—all of which bring a sense of calm and relaxation to my evening routine.
For more detailed instructions and additional stretching techniques that can help you unwind, I encourage you to explore the expert guidance available on the Mayo Clinic’s website. Discover more here.
6. Create a Sleep-Inducing Environment
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary for rest. By creating a sleep-friendly environment, you’ll be more likely to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep throughout the night. This includes making sure your room is dark, cool and clean.
Steps for a Restful Sleep Environment:
- Cool Temperature: Keep the temperature cool, ideally between 60-67°F, to promote better sleep.
- Soothing White Noise: Keep a fan running for gentle air circulation and white noise, crafting a cozy, quiet space for deeper rest.
- Light Control: Use blackout curtains or a sleep mask to create a darker sleeping environment that encourages deeper rest.
- Invest in Comfortable Bedding: High-quality bedding, like breathable sheets and a supportive mattress, can make a significant difference in sleep quality. Opt for natural, soft fabrics like cotton or linen, which help regulate body temperature and enhance comfort throughout the night.
7. Sip on Herbal Tea
A warm cup of herbal tea is a soothing way to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. Teas like chamomile, peppermint, and valerian root are known for their calming properties and can help prepare your body for sleep. Sipping tea becomes more than just a beverage—it’s a moment for reflection and slowing down, inviting both body and mind to ease into rest.
Best herbal teas for relaxation:
- Chamomile: Known for its sleep-inducing properties.
- Peppermint: Helps relax muscles and reduce stress.
- Valerian Root: Often used as a natural sleep aid.
As with any herbal remedy, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional before adding new teas to your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications, as individual reactions can vary.
8. Set Intentions for Tomorrow
Before heading to bed, take a few minutes to set intentions for the next day. Whether it’s reflecting on your goals or jotting down a quick to-do list, this small habit can reduce anxiety and help you feel more prepared for tomorrow.
Steps to Set Daily Intentions:
- Reflect on Your Day: Take 5-10 minutes to reflect on your day and identify what went well and what could be improved.
- Prioritize Tasks: Write down 1-3 key tasks you want to focus on the next day to help guide your efforts.
- Choose Tomorrow’s Outfit: Select your clothes for the next day, considering what will make you feel confident and comfortable, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.
- Practice Gratitude: End with a moment of gratitude by noting down a few positive moments from your day, fostering a mindset of appreciation.
Embrace the Power of an Evening Routine for Better Sleep
Incorporating even a few of these simple practices into your evening routine can help you unwind and set the stage for a restful night’s sleep. Small habits like indulging in skincare, enjoying aromatherapy, practicing gentle stretches, or creating a calming environment allow you to end each day feeling relaxed and at ease. It’s essential to find what genuinely brings you harmony, as the best routines are the ones that resonate with you personally.
Take time to explore what feels right for you—each small choice contributes to a restful night and supports both your well-being and productivity.
Creating a serene and organized space is another way to promote calm and clarity in your routine. For inspiration, explore my tips on refreshing your closet—it’s all about cultivating a comforting atmosphere that works for you, no matter the size of the space!
And how you wind down in the evening can be just as important as your morning routine. If you’re looking for ways to kick-start your day with intention and focus, check out my blog Master Your Day: 8 Simple Morning Habits for a Productive Day. Together, these habits can help you build a balanced, intentional routine from sunrise to sunset!
I hope you found these tips helpful for creating a calming evening routine and getting better rest. If you have favorite ways to unwind or recommendations for items that enhance your evening, I’d love to hear them! Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below—I can’t wait to read them!
As always, thank you for reading!
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