I’ve been working on creating my ideal night time routine for quite some time now. I enjoy the intimacy and somewhat sacred energy that the evening glow hour exudes throughout the home. The day letting me know that it is the perfect time to begin unwinding, indulge in pampering myself, and prep for tomorrow.

As I experience more of this whole adulting situation, I find myself caring more and more about my 6 - 8 hours of sleep. I have experienced how beneficial good sleep can be on the mind, body and soul and I must say it is quite glorious. I have also learned that life throws curve balls and not every night will be on routine. Mine sure isn’t, but we do the best we can and maintain Boss Lady vibes. Here is my ideal night time ritual that keeps me productive and relaxed.

Set the Tone.

When living in a hustle culture, it is important to find time to set a relaxing tone and unwind for a bit to avoid burnout. This may look different to others, but I enjoy the following:

• incense

• scented candles

• skin-care routine

• a long hot shower

• a playlist that won’t disappoint

• cozy pajamas or spicy lingerie (depending on the mood ofc)

• a drink (this usually results in me drinking tea, wine, or a smoothie)

The evening belongs to you. Take control of it and allow yourself to feel good, productive, and confident.

For Tomorrow

Before I deep dive into the rest of my evening, I take time to reflect on my work day and write out my plans for tomorrow. Doing this helps me prioritize myself and my time. It also gives me the rest of the evening to completely tune out of work/school related thoughts. Use this time to finish up any homework or unfinished tasks from work.

I begin by thinking about my accomplishments and what went well throughout my day. Reflecting on your daily wins will help you grow in confidence and realize that you are capable of greatness.

For example:

I did great sticking to my meal plan for the day and drinking water

did very well presenting my project and answering questions self pat on the back

Waking up early to workout felt amazing and kept me energized throughout the morning

It is okay to acknowledge even the smallest of wins. Show gratitude, sis. Be grateful for where you’re at and excited about where you’re going.

Next, I take time to plan out and visualize how I intend on going about tomorrow.

• meal plan

• put aside an outfit

• write work todo list

• write school todo list

• set the coffee machine timer

• pack purse, backpack, lunchbox, etc

For your Body

Movement is important for the body, especially if you work all day from a desk. Going for walks, dancing throughout the house with my husband, and stretching on my yoga mat is usually my go to for the evening. On extra challenging days, I might go for a heavy cardio workout to release steam and stress hormones.

Some evenings I really don’t feel like sweating and instead I indulge in other pleasures. There are other ways to help your body. For example,

• apply a face mask

• take your vitamins

• drink a glass of lemon water

• drink Chamomile or Elderflower tea to put you in a sleepy state

For your Soul

Your soul is a sacred and special essence within you. Working your soul/spirit can be in the form of a guided meditation (YouTube has many good options), praying, going for a walk in nature, reading and writing poetry, or even watching the sun set. It is important to remind yourself that you aren’t alone in this big wide world. There is a force or energy much larger than you that is looking out for you. Youtube has so many good 5-minute guided meditations and by downloading a free Bible app, you can do 5-minute guided bible study sessions.

For Your Mind

Our mind consists of our thoughts, emotions, and feelings. It is our inner self and what we create of it. To better connect with your mind and ease its tension in the evenings try

• journaling

• reciting affirmations

• listening to a podcast

• a guided breathing exercise

• reading a self development book

For your Space

For Your Happiness

Are you currently binge watching Marvel movies, Stranger Things, The Great or Bridgerton? I am! Maybe watching television puts you in a relaxed state and makes you feel content. Take 30 minutes to an hour doing something that makes you genuinely happy. Television, oil-paint, write a blog post, play Spider Solitaire, make a TikTok, or talk to a friend. Whatever you you like doing on your down time, do it.

I hope you can find some of these night time rituals useful for incorporating into your evenings. What other bedtime habits do you find helpful? Let me know in the comments.

xoxo,

Shanae