How to Develop a Consistent Bedtime Routine

Do you have a regular bedtime or is your bedtime routine constantly changing? Going to bed around the same time every night is important but it can also be difficult.

Life is unpredictable, especially if you have kids, which can interfere with your night time routine.

In addition, many people simply don’t realize just how important getting a good night sleep really is but, in reality, your bedtime routine has a profound effect on your physical and mental health. When you go to bed around the same time every night, it helps to ensure your body has the rest it needs to be healthy.

Developing a Consistent Bedtime Routine

• Determine what time you need to go to bed in order to get the recommended amount of sleep each night based on what time you need to get up in the morning. Keep in mind that the average adult needs between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to stay healthy. Kids need much more! My friend Becky has a great guide for kids on Your Modern Family. 
• Begin getting ready for bed an hour before bedtime. During this time avoid electronics and engage in some type of relaxing activity. For example, read a book, write in a journal, do yoga or simply turn the lights down low and listen to some calm, relaxing music to help quiet the mind.
• Do everything you can to prepare for the next day before you go to bed. When you know everything is in order and ready for the new day, it makes it easier to fall asleep on time. You won’t be laying in bed thinking about all the things you need to do as soon as you wake up. It also makes your morning routine a little easier.  
• Don’t dramatically change your routine on the weekends. When you stay up late on the weekends it messes up your schedule and confuses the body. It makes it more difficult to fall asleep on Sunday night and even harder to get up and going on Monday morning.

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine has many advantages. For example, when you get used to going to bed at a certain time each day, your body adjusts accordingly. Over time, you will feel tired and be ready for bed when the time comes and you may find that you even start waking up at the same time every morning, even without an alarm.

A regular bedtime also helps to ensure you’re getting the recommended amount of sleep your body needs to stay healthy. In addition, it helps to improve the quality of sleep you receive so you feel better, you’re more alert, have more energy and you’re ready for whatever the day brings.