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New Year, New Rituals: Bedtime Habits and Essentials for Restful Nights

It’s a new year, which means it’s the perfect time to refresh your bedtime routine. If your evenings look more like endless doom-scrolling than the relaxing wind-down you dream of, don’t worry—you’re not alone. But here’s the thing: small changes can make all the difference. We’ve collated some of our favourite bedtime tips and asked our community to share theirs—from cosy rituals to simple game-changers—and trust us, they’ve nailed it. Let’s dive in.

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Why Bedtime Rituals Matter

First things first, why bother with bedtime rituals? Because your brain loves a bit of routine. Think of these rituals as a signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. They help lower stress, improve sleep quality, and make you feel like you’ve got your life together (even if you’re still winging it).

Community-Inspired Bedtime Rituals

We’re big fans of listening to our community—who knows better than you? Here are some of the top tips we’ve gathered:

Meditation and Sleepy Tea

Meditation isn’t just for yoga retreats. A few minutes of focused breathing can help calm your mind and make drifting off feel effortless. Pair it with a cup of herbal tea—think chamomile or lavender—to set the mood.

Snuggles with Your Partner

Nothing beats a cuddle to end the day. It’s not just warm and fuzzy—physical affection releases oxytocin, which helps you relax. Pro tip: invest in cosy bedding that makes staying in bed irresistible (hello, velvet coverlets).

Reading in Bed

Swap the phone for a book and thank us later. Reading helps distract your brain from the day’s worries but stick to paperbacks or e-readers without blue light. Create the ultimate reading nook with adjustable lighting and a pile of plush pillows.

Extra Tips to Perfect Your Bedtime Routine

Want to take your evenings to the next level? Here are some bonus ideas to help you truly nail your bedtime vibe:

Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Your body thrives on consistency. Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day (yes, even on weekends—sorry!).

Create a Tech-Free Zone

We know it’s hard, but keeping your phone out of the bedroom can improve your sleep: no more late-night doom-scrolling or endless notifications.

Transform Your Sleep Space

Your bedroom should be a sanctuary. To create a calm and inviting space, upgrade your bedding with soft, breathable fabrics like bamboo cotton sheets and keep clutter to a minimum.

Incorporate Aromatherapy

A few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil can work wonders. Add them to a diffuser or spritz your pillow for an instant sense of calm.

Gentle Stretching or Yoga

A quick stretch or light yoga poses can help release tension and prepare your body for rest. As a bonus, you’ll wake up feeling less stiff.

Have a Hot Shower

A hot shower before bed can do wonders for relaxation. The warm water helps to soothe muscles and lower your body temperature when you step out, signaling to your body that it’s time to sleep. Pair it with a fluffy towel and a cosy robe for maximum comfort.

How to Build a Routine That Sticks

Creating a bedtime routine that works for you can feel daunting, but starting small is the key. It’s tempting to overhaul your entire evening all at once, but this can make it harder to stick with. Instead, pick one or two tips that resonate with you and try them consistently for a week or two. Once they become second nature, add another.

Here are some practical ways to ease into a routine:

  • Set a Reminder: Use an alarm or a phone notification to remind you it’s time to start winding down. This simple prompt can help you stay consistent.
  • Prepare Your Space: Before the evening begins, lay out your pajamas, prepare your sleepy tea, or set up your book and diffuser. A little preparation can make your routine feel effortless.
  • Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or use an app to track your feelings each morning. Over time, you’ll notice which habits make the biggest difference.
  • Adjust as Needed: Life happens, so be flexible. If one part of your routine isn’t working, swap it out for something else. The goal is to create a routine that feels sustainable and enjoyable.

Remember, it’s okay if you don’t get it perfect right away. Life happens, and routines evolve. The goal is progress, not perfection. Keep experimenting until you find the rituals that help you unwind and relax.

Curating Your Bedtime Essentials

Now that you’ve sorted the rituals, it’s time to talk essentials. Here are a few must-haves to complete your bedtime setup:

  • Essential Oil Diffuser: Fill your room with calming scents like lavender or chamomile to create a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Weighted Blanket: The gentle pressure can help reduce anxiety and promote deeper sleep.
  • Blue Light Blocking Glasses: If you can’t resist screens before bed, these glasses can help reduce eye strain and improve sleep quality.
  • Bedside Lamp with Adjustable Lighting: Soft, dimmable light is perfect for reading and winding down without disrupting your melatonin production.
  • Cosy Socks: Keeping your feet warm can help regulate your body temperature and make falling asleep easier.
These George Street Linen picks are also here to make your evenings even better:

There you have it: everything you need to reset your bedtime routine for the new year. The best part? You don’t have to overhaul your life to see a difference.

Start small, experiment, and see what works for you. And if you’re looking for the perfect pieces to complement your new rituals, check out George Street Linen’s range—your best sleep is just a few clicks away.

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