Mental Health

How to Build an Evening Routine That Improves Quality of Life

By Dynne C. | Update Date: Feb 19, 2024 03:28 AM EST

From reducing stress to enhancing sleep quality, a well-crafted routine can boost a person's overall well-being. While some people create their routines for the day, a lot forget about having a healthy evening routine. Entrepreneurship and time management Instagram account @houseofinvestors suggests doing the following nightly activities after 7 p.m.

Reflect

Take a moment in the evening to reflect on the day's events. Engaging in self-reflection allows individuals to process emotions and experiences, promoting mental health. Consider keeping a journal to jot down thoughts and feelings, which promotes a sense of clarity and understanding.

Disconnect

Technology makes it possible to conveniently connect with the world today. However, it is essential to disconnect from screens and technology before bedtime. The blue light emitted from screens can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to poor sleep quality. Establishing a digital curfew at least an hour before bedtime can help promote relaxation and prepare the mind for rest.

Plan

Setting aside time in the evening to plan for the next day can alleviate anxiety and promote productivity. It helps to create a to-do list or schedule tasks for the following day, allowing the mind to rest easy knowing that everything is organized and accounted for. This practice can enhance feelings of control and preparedness, leading to a more peaceful night's sleep.

Breathe

Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises can help signal the body that it's time to unwind. Deep breathing activates the body's parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. This can be done by spending a few minutes practicing deep breathing or mindfulness meditation to ease into a state of calm before bedtime.

Read

Engaging in a calming activity such as reading can facilitate the transition from wakefulness to sleep. Choose a material that is enjoyable and not overly stimulating, such as fiction or poetry. Reading can serve as a form of escapism, promoting relaxation conducive to sleep.

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