Reclaim Your Night: 5 Steps to Build a Sleep Routine That Works
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A night of deep, restorative sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s the foundation for sharper focus, brighter moods, and lasting energy. Yet in our always-on world, drifting off can feel like chasing an elusive dream. By crafting a simple, consistent routine, you signal to your mind and body that it’s time to power down.
Here are five science-backed strategies to transform your evenings—and yes, there’s a little extra support waiting at wearegmys.com.
1. Establish a Consistent Bedtime and Wake–Up Hour
Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day—even on weekends—anchors your circadian rhythm. Over time, this consistency:
- Reduces the time it takes to fall asleep
- Deepens REM and slow-wave sleep phases
- Makes waking naturally in the morning feel easier
Treat your sleep schedule like any other important appointment: guard it, honour it, and watch your energy levels soar.
2. Design a Calming Pre-Sleep Ritual
A transition period between your busy day and bedtime helps your brain switch gears. Pick one or two soothing activities:
- A warm bath or shower to ease muscle tension
- 10–15 minutes of light reading (print, not digital)
- Guided breathing or gentle stretches in bed
Over time, these cues become Pavlovian signals, lulling you toward rest as soon as your ritual begins.
3. Create an Optimal Sleep Environment
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary for slumber. Aim for:
- A temperature between 16–19°C for maximal comfort
- Total darkness—blackout curtains or an eye mask work wonders
- Minimum noise, or embrace a soft white noise machine if stillness feels too stark
Small environmental tweaks can yield transformational gains in sleep depth and continuity.
4. Limit Screen Exposure Before Bed
Blue light from phones, tablets, and laptops suppresses melatonin, the hormone that tells your body it’s time to sleep. To protect your natural rhythm:
- Power down devices at least 60 minutes before lights out
- Swap screen scrolling for a paper book or low-light meditation
- If you must use electronics, engage a blue-light filter or wear amber-tinted glasses
Guarding this screen-free hour sets the stage for a smoother descent into rest.
5. Practice Mindful Evening Eating and Drinking
What you consume in the hours before bed can either support or sabotage your sleep cycle. Keep these guidelines in mind:
- Avoid caffeine after midday; its effects can linger for up to 8 hours
- Skip heavy, fatty, or spicy meals in the evening to prevent indigestion
- If hunger strikes late, choose a light snack—think banana or a small handful of nuts
Mindful eating helps ensure you’re not tossing and turning thanks to a grumbling stomach or restless digestion.
A Little Extra Help: Relaxation Sleep gmys
Pair these five steps with our Relaxation Sleep gmys, crafted to enhance your evening wind-down. Each month’s supply is designed to support calmer nerves and deeper rest—naturally.