Sweet Dreams: One Mom’s Guide to Nighttime Self-Care and Relaxation

As a busy mom, it can be challenging to find time for self-care during the day. Between work, taking care of the kids, and running errands, it can feel like there are never enough hours in the day. However, one often overlooked opportunity for self-care is right before bedtime. A nighttime routine can not only help you wind down and relax but can also improve the quality of your sleep!

8:00 PM

After putting the kids to bed, take 15-20 minutes to unwind and relax. You could read a book, take an epsom salt and baking soda bath or add an aromatherapy shower steamer to your shower, or just sit quietly and breathe deeply.

8:20 PM

Spend 5-10 minutes stretching your muscles. You could try yoga, gentle stretches, or even just walking around your home.

8:30 PM

Spend 5-10 minutes practicing mindfulness or meditation. This can help you calm your mind and prepare for restful sleep.

8:40 PM

Wash your face and brush your teeth. This is an essential part of any nighttime routine, and it only takes a few minutes.

8:50 PM

Moisturize your skin with a gentle, nourishing cream or oil. Take it to the next level by giving yourself face massage using a jade roller or gua sha tool.

9:00 PM

Spend 30 minutes doing something you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or watching your favorite show. This can help you relax and unwind before bed.

9:30 PM

Write down and reflect on what you are grateful for in a journal. This can help shift your focus to positive thoughts and feelings.

9:45 PM

Practice breathing exercises, such as the 4-7-8 technique, for 5-10 minutes. I like to do this while I lay on my acupressure mat. When I am consistent with using it, I sleep much better.

10:00 PM

Go to bed and try to get 7-9 hours of sleep.

Final Takeaway

The most important thing is to prioritize self-care in your daily routine and make it a consistent habit. Even if you choose a couple of ideas from this list to incorporate into your nightly routine, you will surely feel a positive difference!