Healthy Habits Blog
Why Evening Routines Are Key
An effective evening routine promotes better sleep and prepares you for the next day. The National Sleep Foundation reports that consistent evening habits improve sleep quality by 35%. For example, Mike, a Chicago accountant, reduced his insomnia by adopting a calming evening routine. Here’s how to create one.
Limit Screen Time
Blue light from screens disrupts melatonin. Research suggests avoiding screens 1 hour before bed.
Use Blue Light Filters
Apps like f.lux reduce blue light. Mike uses night mode on his phone.
Filter Benefits
Improves sleep onset.
Device Settings
Enable night shift.
Read a Book
Reading relaxes the mind. Mike reads fiction for 15 minutes.
Reading Benefits
Reduces stress.
Book Choices
Choose light reads.
Prepare for Tomorrow
Evening planning reduces morning stress. A 2020 study found that pre-planning enhances efficiency.
Review Your Day
Reflect on what went well. Journaling helps process emotions.
Write a Short Reflection
Note successes and lessons. Mike journals for 5 minutes.
Journal Benefits
Boosts clarity.
Journal Tools
Use a notebook.
Plan Your Morning
Lay out clothes or prep breakfast. Mike sets out his gym gear.
Simplify Decisions
Prepping saves time. This cut Mike’s morning rush by 10 minutes.
Prep Benefits
Reduces stress.
Prep Ideas
Pack lunch early.