Amidst the constant negotiations of work, family and personal commitments, it’s easy to overlook the impact a wind down routine can have on your wellbeing.

Crafting a wind down routine will not only enhance your quality of sleep, but also your overall well-being.

WHAT IS A WIND DOWN ROUTINE?

It is a deliberate and structured set of practices that you perform in the lead up to bedtime. A practice that transitions your mind and body from the busyness of life into a state of relaxation and readiness for sleep.

Here are some of my personal favourites….

Limit your screen time. Turn off all electronic devices at 7pm. Smartphones, computers and tablets all emit a blue light, which can wreak havoc on the production of the sleep hormone melatonin.

Read… This is one of my favourite things to do. Find books that you love and read until you can’t possibly keep your eyes open. You will find that there is a place where the words of the books weave into your dreams.

Mindfulness. Taking little moments to be fully engaged in the moment is mindfulness, and this practice has been found to improve sleep and host of other medical conditions. When you are brushing your teeth, be where you are, feel the toothbrush on your teeth, on your gums, the water swirling around your mouth.

Gentle stretching. Incorporating light stretches to your routine before bed can help to relieve physical tension and get out those last bits of energy before sleep.

Journaling. I would love to say that I do this religiously, alas I don’t, but I use it when I have thoughts that are racing in my mind that I need to sort out. It’s an incredible tool to use so that you can sleep soundly. Gratitude notes are such a beautiful way to end each day on a high, filling your heart full of love for all you have.

Warm bath or shower. Great for relaxing the muscles, extra points if you add magnesium to your bath

There are so many other incredible elements you could include like brewing an adaptogenic Forest Mushroom Chai, burning a beautiful beeswax candle (none of those heavily scented hormone disruptors), adding beautiful soft music, the list goes on.

Life changes when we make simple changes, and these beautiful wind down practices create a nourishing environment and relaxing prelude to sleep. If you’re looking for super foods to support better rest, take a look at our relax range below.

Stress + Anxiety