I am the type of mom to be like: “hey, dinner, shower, book, bed.” And then give myself grace, clean the kitchen, make a nighttime snack (before my fasting starts) and then start editing content, work on a coding project, or play sims. OR simply lay on the couch and binge watch 6 episodes of Grey’s Anatomy.
On the flip side, about 6 months ago I made a promise to myself that I would love myself first that way I could love everyone else around me harder. This included 3 things: Focus on my business at night, read a book a month whether it be self-help or romance (I really can’t help myself sometimes.), and get my nighttime routine on track and in check.
Here are my top 10 priorities for a consistent and graceful nighttime routine that not only feels rewarding but allows me to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to rock the next morning.
1. If you’re a mom, Set a Consistent Bedtime for the Kids
A consistent bedtime for your kids is the foundation of a peaceful evening. We have dinner together; they brush their teeth and shower/bath. We try really hard to establish a bedtime routine that includes calming activities like reading a book or listening to soft music. I also incorporated less stimulation into their nighttime routine, like coloring or building with blocks, and then there are other nights that we have dance parties. But no matter what we do, spending time together around the same area and time block each day is what is most important. This not only helps them wind down but also gives you a predictable window of time for yourself after they’re asleep.
2. Create a Wind-Down Ritual for Yourself
I try incredibly hard to pick up the pieces after the kids head off to bed. But unlike cleaning the house, I also prep our homeschool for the next day. Then comes editing content, then comes coding projects or teaching others, and then comes gaming. I try really hard to balance all of that and keep its as consistent as possible so I can look forward to most things.
3. Prioritize Self-Care Activities
Whether it’s skincare, journaling, or reading a good book, I try to make sure to include self-care activities that bring me joy and help me decompress. Choosing one or two activities that I truly enjoy and commit to doing them every night. I make this my time to focus on myself and recharge.
4. Limit Screen Time Before Bed
While it’s tempting to scroll through social media or watch TV in bed (I am guilty), too much screen time before sleep can interfere with anyone’s ability to wind down. I try to disconnect from screens at least 30 minutes before bed. Instead, and opt for activities like reading or listening to a calming podcast. If you needed a TBR recommendation I have an updating list here 🤭
5. Prepare for the Next Day
This changes my entire life. I lay out clothes (workout + daily) not only for me but for my kids as well. This saves me so much time in the morning because I don’t feel the need to take the time to choose in the mornings.
6. Practice Gratitude
I really try to end my day on a positive note by reflecting on what I’m grateful for. I do this through journaling or simply taking a few moments to think about the good things that happened during the day. Cultivating gratitude helps improve my overall mood and I feel, it helps me sleep better.
7. Establish a Relaxing Sleep Environment
The master bedroom in my house, is my sanctuary. I keep essential oils for my sleep schedule, I use my nightstand as a storage for a morning and nighttime routine. I bring some tart cherry juice upstairs with me to sip on while I read whatever book I’m on.
8. Stay Hydrated, But Not Too Much
While I try really hard to drink water throughout the day because it’s important, but I try to limit my intake right before bed to avoid nighttime trips to the bathroom. I make the viral sleepy girl mocktail which I posted on YouTube and you can see it here.
9. Set Boundaries with Late-Night Work
I am a craze writer at night. Most of my work vanishes through coding and trying to get my projects done. I batch film my content and edit it over the course of a two-night span. But it gets incredibly difficult to turn my brain off when I’m in the zone. If my alarm goes off for my nighttime routine, I try to finish my last sentence or class or quest and turn myself off. It is SO important to have a boundary set for when I need to focus on myself and not my work. Money comes and goes, but mental health stays a certain way forever if you treat it so.
10. Listen to Your Body
Finally, listen to your body’s cues. If you’re feeling particularly tired one night, allow yourself to go to bed earlier. Flexibility is important in maintaining a routine that truly serves you and your needs as a mom. It is more important to have a full cup to pour from, than to be running on fumes 24/7.