HEALTH

Getting up in the morning can feel like the worst thing ever, especially if you were up all night trying to finish up homework, scrolling on Instagram or just tossing and turning unable to fall asleep.

It's important to have a good night's rest before taking on the day ahead. We all have habits (some unhealthy) that we don't even notice. Try putting these five simple habits purposefully into your nightly routine so that you too can feel less stressed and more successful.

Pick a designated time for bed, and stick to it!

Our bodies begin to shut down when it starts to feel tired, but sometimes we ignore our bodies wishes to sleep and keep watching that next episode on Netflix, or try to push through and finish cramming for an upcoming test. Set the perfect time for you to be in bed by and once the clock strikes, shut everything down and make your way to your bed. As you begin to fall asleep everyday at the same time, your body will adjust and the quality of your sleep will be better!

Wind down from electronics

Electronics are a huge distraction when trying to go to sleep. Avoid climbing into bed with your phone or laptop, because before you know it, you're on Google searching random facts! Place your phone and laptop on a table nearby to charge. If you use your alarm on your phone, this is the perfect way to get you up in the morning once it goes off. 

Read or journal before bed

If you can't fall asleep right away, no worries. Our minds seem to be most active during bed time. Try reading a chapter from your fave book or journal all your thoughts until you get tired. You can also map out your plans for the next day ahead and set goals for yourself that you plan to accomplish when you wake up. That way, you're pumped about getting up in the morning to start your day!

Lay off the sweets

Candy, chocolate and all types of unnatural sugar can leave you hyper before bed. If you're in the mood for a nightly snack, grab a fruit or eat something small and nutritious to avoid having to stay up another hour for the sugar to wear off.

Give your skin some TLC

While preparing for bed, be sure to wash your face of all the dirt and oil build up from the day. Nightly showers also help you unwind before bed. Commit to your skin care routine day and night. Use gentle prouducts and soothing lotions to help you feel more relaxed and at ease.

With these simple yet key habits, you are all set to having the best sleep of your life in order to take on the day that waits ahead.

What are some ways you like to de-stress before bed? Let us know in the comments!

We want to hear from you! Send us your weirdest body questions here (seriously, we'll answer anything!) and it just might get featured.

by Toyin Akinwande | 2/15/2018