Sleep

Wind-down routine

A short evening ritual that signals “day is closing”

Design a realistic wind-down routine — light, screens, stretch, and journaling — so sleep onset gets easier.

Sleep onsetStress downshift

Overview

A wind-down routine is a behavioural bridge between daytime stimulation and sleep. It does not need to be spa-length — 15–30 minutes of repeatable cues is enough for many people.

How to start

  1. Choose 2–4 cues: dim lights, stretch, shower, paper book, light journaling.
  2. Start the routine at the same clock time most nights.
  3. Park the phone outside the bedroom if doomscrolling is the failure mode.
  4. Track “started wind-down” as a Habbeat habit to reinforce the cue.

Practical tips

  • Keep the routine boring on purpose — excitement belongs earlier.
  • If anxiety spikes at night, a brain-dump list can offload unfinished loops.
  • Alcohol may feel relaxing but often fragments sleep later.

Evidence notes

Short context on what research and guidelines generally discuss — not a systematic review or grade chart.

  • Sleep hygiene and stimulus-control ideas are common first-line behavioural approaches; chronic insomnia may need structured therapy.

FAQ

What if I only have 10 minutes?

Use a mini version: lights down, device away, 10 slow breaths. Short and consistent beats elaborate and rare.

Disclaimer: This guide is educational and general. It is not medical advice. Speak with a qualified professional before changing diet, training, or supplements if you have a health condition, take medication, or are pregnant.

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