4 Ways to Relax before Bed
It never hurts to stop and take a moment to press pause and let ourselves relax for a moment. Sometimes it can seem as if the week will never end or our to do list seems to have no end in sight. Whenever I’m in need of hitting the reset button but I don’t have very much time, I have a couple tried and true methods to help me relax midweek until the weekend finally rolls around.
Bubbles
What is more luxurious than being enveloped in a warm bubbly bath? It’s so easy to craft your own unique aroma or relaxing ambiance. Using lavender and other essential oils, a relaxing playlist in the background, and even a bath tray so that you can read without worrying about your book falling in the water. However, if you don’t have a bath its just as easy in the shower. I even implement a very simple meditation technique while in the shower that really decreases whatever stress I’ve experienced that day. I like to start by envisioning that I am washing the stress or worries of my day away. Slowly scrubbing them away until my mind is clear. I always step out feeling lighter and with a clear mind.
Tea
I know everyone is hyped up on coffee but I don’t think getting addicted to stimulants is great either. I tried coffee for only three days and was rewarded with a unpleasant headache. I quickly picked up my usual routine of having a cup of hot tea in the morning. I still get that rush but with a healthier type of caffeine for my body. Morning isn’t the only time either. Smelling the fresh brewed leaves as I brew a cup before bed creates the perfect setting to simply indulge a cup at home or use it as an accompaniment to any of my late night pleasures, Netflix included!
Ambiance
Who doesn’t love to be surrounded an aesthetically pleasing environment? I have been in the habit of lighting candles every single night and reading by the soft light. It’s calming and appeals to the senses. My mother loved fragrances and I guess I am no different. I love having numerous candles and scents to reflect my moods and seasonal changes. It also helps to signal to my brain when its time to sleep. As the night falls, I dim the lights lower and lower until its time to slumber making it easy for me to fall in to a deep sleep. Personally, I love Voluspa and Archipelago Candles. Their scents are amazing! If you’re not into candles, a simple change could simply be changing out the light bulbs in your lamp. I love using rosy colored bulbs that really set the mood. The difference will surprise you!
Reading
Obviously looking at electronic screens all day I do eventually like to give my eyes a rest. I tried the kindle and all that other stuff but I’m just too old fashioned. I love turning the pages, holding the book in my hand, and getting drawn into a great story. Besides, daily reading should really be a habit everyone should cultivate. It really does increase your vocabulary, decrease your stress, and all that jazz.
