My Nighttime Self-Care Rituals

Over the past few months, I’ve been sharing routines and activities I do myself every day: I started with my morning routine (which includes no phone, meditation, and journaling) and followed up with my must-have fall skin care products (shoutout for keeping my skin protected from the elements!). So I thought it was only appropriate to share my nighttime self-care rituals for the holidays.

November and December are often rewarding but also tiring: there are many external pressures and expectations for what we should be doing, or how we should feel during the holidays. It can be full of joy but let’s be real, it can also be draining. So it’s important, now more than ever, to set aside time for ourselves and take care of ourselves! Absolutely one of the pillars of holistic wellness and fitness.

Take a look at some of the things I do to unwind after a long day of teaching, meetings, gardening, and the like.

1. Play some chill music

I start this routine sometimes while I’m making dinner. A chill playlist is one of the many ways to create a relaxing mood I’m looking for after a long busy day. Check out my Evening Wind Down Mix on my Spotify

2. Prepare for tomorrow

I check my calendar to see what I have ahead tomorrow. I need that time to wrap my head around my schedule and prepare that night to give my best the next day. If I know I have an early day, maybe I’ll pack some food or snacks ahead of time. Or if I know I’ll be up super early to teach, I’ll layout my clothes for the next day, so I don’t have to think too hard in the morning. Preparation + opportunity = success.

3. Shower / Bathe

There’s something about water that’s healing: ancient practices have suggested that water has radical healing properties, so it’s no surprise that I feel refreshed and much better after a hot shower or bath. A bodyworker/massage therapist I use to work with recommends a combination of Epsom salt, baking soda, and apple cider vinegar to heal and calm your body.

4. Aromatherapy

Having aromatic candles or a diffuser around reminds my mind to take it easy. Do you have a favorite scent? Is it nostalgic and does it bring back fond memories? Use it to unwind. I have a diffuser for essential oils, (I love grapefruit, cedar, and lavender) and also have a few favorite candles I use in the evenings. (I’m working on some new Live Learn Lovewell candles come 2021!)

5. Sip some tea

I’m obsessed with matcha tea in the mornings, but because of its caffeine I try to avoid it in the evening. Instead, I make spiced African rooibos tea with hot water and a splash of almond or oat milk. This tea is supplemented with the spice mix I made, so check out the recipe! You can also use the same spices in morning chai as well.

6. Technology free

Just like I start my day with no electronics, I go to bed without any distractions. This puts my mind at ease and lets me detach. I recommend an hour before you’d like to be sleeping, put your phone and computer away. Pick up that book you’ve been reading, or magazine. Technology stimulates your brain, and we’re trying to unwind here.

7. Take your vitamins

Talk to your healthcare provider about what supplements and vitamins are good for you. Remember, everyone and every body is different. I like to take my vitamins after dinner, and before I go to bed. My stomach responds better to taking supplements on a full stomach. My concoction usually includes: Vitamin D, B-12, zinc, and magnesium. And magnesium promotes sleep!

8. Gratitude Mantra

Similar to my morning routine, I start each day with what I’m grateful for. Let’s repeat that at night. Do you have a mantra already you like to use? Before you go to sleep is a good time to remind yourself, you’re doing great. You are strong, capable, and resilient. The world is a better place because you are in it. Instead of being hard on yourself at the end of the day, be patient, loving, and kind. Remember what you are grateful for, because we get to do it again tomorrow.