The holidays are a magical time filled with joy, celebration, and the occasional chaos. Between late-night gatherings, indulgent treats, and the pressure of last-minute gift wrapping, it’s easy to find yourself burning the candle at both ends. But while the festivities are fun, sacrificing sleep can leave you feeling drained, irritable, and less able to enjoy the season’s wonders.
Here’s how you can create a restful nighttime routine that helps you stay recharged during the busiest time of the year.
1. Set Boundaries with Screen Time
We know, it’s tempting to scroll through holiday sales or binge-watch festive movies before bed, but your screen might be sabotaging your sleep. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and TVs tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daytime, delaying the production of melatonin—the hormone responsible for making you feel sleepy.
This holiday season, set a “digital sunset” at least an hour before bedtime. Swap out your screen time for activities that help you unwind, like reading a good book or enjoying a warm cup of herbal tea. Your notifications can wait until morning, and trust us, your body will thank you.
2. Embrace Calming Rituals
The holidays often come with a to-do list a mile long, making it hard to switch gears when it’s time to sleep. This is where calming rituals come in. Taking even 15 minutes for yourself can make all the difference.
Try journaling about the day’s highlights or writing down what you’re grateful for. Not only does this clear your mind, but it also shifts your focus to positive thoughts. Pair this with a few minutes of deep breathing or meditation to center yourself. Apps like Calm or Headspace can be great companions, but a simple practice of focusing on your breath works just as well.
For added relaxation, consider a soothing foot or hand massage to release tension built up during the day. The act of nurturing yourself is a gentle reminder that rest is just as important as the celebrations.
3. Create a Cozy Sleep Environment
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, especially during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Start by decluttering—fold those laundry piles, stash away wrapping supplies, and make your bed inviting.
The right bedding can also make a world of difference. Layer soft blankets and supportive pillows to create a cocoon of comfort. Orthopedic wedge pillows, for example, can be a game-changer. They help align your body for optimal relaxation and can be particularly helpful if you’re dealing with back or neck discomfort from all the holiday running around.
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet to signal your body that it’s time to rest. If outside noise or bright holiday lights are an issue, consider investing in blackout curtains or a white noise machine.
4. Watch What You Eat and Drink
Holiday treats are hard to resist, but what you consume before bed can impact your sleep. Heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime can disrupt your rest. Instead, opt for light snacks that promote sleep, like a handful of almonds or a banana.
A warm drink like chamomile tea or a decaf golden milk latte can also help you wind down. These comforting beverages are perfect for the season and signal to your body that it’s time to relax.
5. Prioritize Consistency
With so many parties and events, sticking to a routine can be challenging, but consistency is key to quality sleep. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even during the holidays. Your body thrives on rhythm, and maintaining a schedule can help you feel more rested and energized.
If late-night events throw off your routine, don’t stress. Just aim to return to your regular sleep habits as soon as possible.
The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and making memories, but they shouldn’t come at the expense of your well-being. By setting boundaries, embracing calming rituals, and creating a cozy environment, you can enjoy the season while still prioritizing your health.
So, as you sip your cocoa and wind down for the evening, remember to give yourself the gift of rest. After all, a well-rested you is the best gift you can offer to the people you love.
