We all know the feeling. You’re in bed trying to get to sleep but for some reason, you just can’t switch off. Maybe you’re thinking about what you need to get done tomorrow, or maybe you’re reflecting on the day you’ve just had. Either way, it can be difficult to settle down and get the proper rest you need if you don’t take the time to wind down before bed. This article offers some useful ideas for managing your stress before bed.

Keep off your phone

One of the main culprits for keeping you awake before bedtime is your phone. You’re scrolling through Instagram and come across a news story that gets you thinking about who’d win in a fight: Batman or Superman? Before you know it, two hours have passed and all you want to do now is go to sleep.

To combat this, avoid using your phone before bed. It is a particularly bad idea to use your phone as an alarm clock – try getting yourself a plain old alarm clock instead, and keep your phone a few feet from your bed.

Have a relaxing bath

Try consuming something like a nerds rope edible and take a nice, hot bath before bed. This can be a great way to relax and switch off. Not only is it a good time for you to unwind, but as most of us spend hours out of the home every day at school or work, having some quiet, relaxing time to yourself can make a huge difference.

If you don’t want to spend time in the dark with only your thoughts for company, a gentle bath could be your perfect solution. Add some lavender oil and salts to help calm you down. Alternatively, CBD-infused bath bombs from Simply CBD Wales (simplycbdwales.com) can help create a relaxing and soothing environment. Be sure to check out the full range to see what products work for you.

Have a warm drink

A warm drink can be a great way to relax before bed. It doesn’t always have to be tea; many people enjoy milk or camomile before bed, while others prefer plain old water. If you want to take care of yourself at night, try drinking some decaffeinated green tea. Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which has been shown to lower your levels of the “stress hormone” cortisol. A recent study showed that people who drank green tea for eight weeks slept better than those who didn’t, so this could help you wind down before bedtime.

Read a book

If you’re the type of person who unwinds at night with a book, then this is for you. Reading serves as an amazing way to shut out the outside world and relax, which can be just what you need before bedtime. If you really want to help yourself fall asleep faster, make sure it’s not a page-turner; choose a book that has no more than 200 pages and is written in simple language.

Meditate

If you’re the kind of person who likes to practice mindfulness or meditation in your spare time, then this is a great way for you to wind down at night.

Meditation allows you to focus solely on yourself and forget about everything else in the world. Although it’s no magic wand, meditation can help you relax before bedtime and make yourself feel refreshed.

Guide provided by Depth Counseling, offering counseling for depression