Are you in search of productive things to do before bed? Well, you are in the right place!
We often forget that our habits before sleep can have a massive impact on how productive we are the next day.
We may be tempted to stay up late watching Netflix or scrolling through social media, but if we want to avoid chronic sleep deficits and maximise our productivity levels, there are much more productive things we can do before bed to help achieve a great night's sleep.
In this article, we will explore the pre-bed rituals of productive and successful people and compare some of the most effective things they do before bed to boost their productivity levels.
From easy tasks like tidying up your space or updating your planner to more creative tasks like working on your marketing strategy or tackling a fun hobby project, these proven routines can help you get a better night’s sleep while also setting yourself up for success the next day.
So leave scrolling through Instagram for tomorrow—here's a list of productive tasks that will have you drifting off peacefully with added peace of mind in no time!
Physically Prepare Your Body for Bed
Getting enough sleep is essential for productivity, and physically preparing your body for bed is an important step in ensuring a good night’s rest. Taking the time to relax and unwind before bed can help you drift off into a peaceful slumber, so make sure to give yourself some time to relax and prepare your body for sleep.
This could include stretching, taking a warm bath or shower, or even reading a book. Whatever helps you wind down and get ready for bed should be part of your pre-bed routine, as it has so many health benefits!
We've compiled a list of some of the most productive things you can do before going to bed to help your body.
1. Take a hot bath or shower
Taking a hot bath or shower before bed can be incredibly relaxing and help you achieve quality sleep. The warmth of the water helps to relax your muscles, reduce stress levels, and improve circulation.
Additionally, the steam from the shower can help to clear your sinuses and open up your airways for better breathing.
2. Do simple stretches and exercises
When you exercise before bed, you relax both your body and mind. Simple stretches or yoga poses can help reduce tension in the muscles, improve flexibility, and increase blood flow throughout the body—all of which can lead to better sleep quality.
Additionally, exercising before bed can help you feel more energised during the day, as it helps to release endorphins that boost your mood and energy levels.
3. Get snug and comfortable in your bed
Getting snug and comfortable in your bed is an important step in preparing your body for sleep. Taking the time to make sure that you are comfortable and relaxed can help you drift off into a peaceful slumber.
Making sure that your bedding is clean and fresh, adjusting the temperature of the room, and using a pillow or blanket that provides support can all help to ensure that you get a good night’s sleep.
4. Following along with a yoga or meditation video
Following along with a yoga or meditation video before bed can be an incredibly effective way to relax your body and mind. Taking the time to focus on your breathing and practise some simple poses can help you drift off into a peaceful sleep.
Yoga and meditation videos are available online for free, so you can easily find one that suits your needs. One particular YouTuber I listen to when doing yoga is "Yoga with Adrienne," who has hundreds of videos for people of all different abilities.
5. Apply moisturiser to your skin to keep it hydrated
Applying moisturiser to your skin before bed is a great way to keep it hydrated and healthy. Moisturizing helps to lock in moisture, reduce dryness, and protect the skin from environmental damage.
Using a gentle, non-irritating moisturiser can help soothe and nourish the skin while you sleep. Try E45 body lotion if you have irritatingly sensitive skin. It has helped me a lot.
6. Deep clean your teeth and floss
Taking the time to deep clean your teeth and floss before bed is an important step in maintaining good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth helps to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay, while flossing helps to remove food particles and debris from between the teeth.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and dental floss can help ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy.
7. Do a face mask
Doing a face mask before bed can be a great way to pamper yourself and give your skin some extra love. Face masks help to nourish and hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
There are many different types of face masks available, so you can choose one that suits your skin type. For those with dry or sensitive skin, try a hydrating mask, while those with oily skin may benefit from a clay mask.
Productively taking care of your body is one thing, but taking care of your mind is also highly important.
Take Care of Your Mind
Before going to bed, it's important to take some time for yourself and practise activities that will help you relax and unwind. In daily life, taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body.
This can include activities such as reading a book, listening to calming music, or doing a yoga or meditation video. These activities can help you transition into the different stages of sleep more easily and ensure that you get a good night's rest.
In addition to the foregoing, we have outlined the top productive things you can do to care for your mind below.
8. Call your parents
Calling your parents before bed can be a great way to stay connected and catch up with them. Taking the time to talk to your parents about your day, share stories, and ask for advice can help you feel more relaxed and connected as you drift off into a peaceful night's sleep.
Being connected to those who you love the most will, in turn, help with your mental health.
9. Spend time with your pets
Spending time with your pets before bed is always a great way to relax and de-stress. Taking the time to cuddle, play, or just sit and watch them can help you to unwind and forget about the day's worries.
Pets are also known for their calming effects, so spending some quality time with them can help to reduce anxiety and improve your mood. Plus, it's always nice to show them some extra love!
10. Practice mindful breathing techniques
A great relaxing activity to de-stress and wind down before bedis deep breathing exercises. Taking the time to focus on your breath can help to slow down your heart rate, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being.
There are many different mindful breathing techniques that you can practise before bed. For example, you can try counting your breaths or focusing on the sensation of air entering and leaving your body. You can also try visualising a peaceful scene or repeating a calming mantra.
If you are struggling, there are a plethora of tutorial videos on YouTube to help with this.
11. Take your vitamins and supplements
Taking your vitamins and supplements before bed can be a great way to ensure that you are getting all the essential nutrients your body needs, enabling you to stay as efficient and effective in life and business as possible. Vitamins and supplements can help boost your immune system, improve energy levels, and support overall health.
It is important to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before taking any vitamins or supplements, as they can interact with certain medications. Additionally, it is important to make sure that you are taking the right dosage for your body. Simply taking more vitamins certainly does not result in a healthier body or mind!
12. Keep your mind and body hydrated
Drinking plenty of water before bed is essential for staying hydrated and keeping your body and mind functioning optimally. Staying hydrated can help to improve energy levels, reduce fatigue, and support overall health.
It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, but this amount may vary depending on your individual needs. When you are dehydrated, your mind and body can become sluggish, so it is important to make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day.
13. Meditate and calm your mind.
A little old trick of a huge number of successful people is taking time out during the day to focus on your breath, clear your thoughts, and practise mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety. Listening to white noise in the background can also be beneficial, as it can help to block out distractions and create a calming atmosphere.
It can also help to improve sleep quality, allowing you to wake up feeling more refreshed and energized. Also, white noise can be used as a form of meditation by focusing on the sound itself, which can help to relax the mind and body.
There are many different types of meditation that you can practise before bed, such as guided meditations, visualizations, or simply focusing on your breath. Headspace is a fantastic app that can help you on your meditation journey.
14. Sip on a relaxing herbal tea like chamomile or lavender
Sipping on a cup of calming herbal tea like chamomile or lavender a few hours before bed can be an effective way to reduce stress and anxiety. The warmth of the tea can help soothe your body and mind, allowing you to drift off into a peaceful sleep. Additionally, these teas are known for their calming effects, helping to relax your body and mind before bed.
It is important to note that some herbal teas can contain caffeine, so it is important to check the label before consuming. Additionally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to consult with your doctor before drinking any herbal tea.
15. Listen to calming music to help relax your mood
Listening to calming music before bed can be a great way to help relax your mood and prepare for sleep. Music has the power to reduce stress, anxiety, and even physical pain. It can also help to improve sleep quality, allowing you to wake up feeling more refreshed and energized.
When selecting music for bedtime, it is important to choose something that is slow-paced and calming. Classical music, ambient music, and nature sounds are all great options.
16. Complete puzzles or mind games to challenge your brain
Completing puzzles or mind games before bed can be a great way to challenge your brain and keep it sharp. Puzzles such as crosswords, sudoku, or jigsaw puzzles can help stimulate the mind and improve cognitive function. Also, they can help reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to drift off into a peaceful sleep.
A key thing to note, however, is that these activities should not be too stimulating or challenging, as this can have the opposite effect and make it harder to fall asleep.
17. Practice gratitude and reflection
Practicing gratitude reflection before bedtime can help you end the day on a positive note. Taking the time to reflect on all the things you are grateful for can help reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to drift off into a peaceful sleep.
It is important to focus on the positive aspects of your life, such as relationships, experiences, and accomplishments. Writing down your thoughts in a journal can also be a great way to express your gratitude. The OCCO London Mindset Journal has gratitude and affirmation prompts, along with space to freely journal, further helping you to get a restful night's sleep.
Get Organized and Plan Ahead
Creating a sleep schedule can be an effective way to reduce stress and anxiety before bed. Taking the time to plan ahead and organise your tasks for the next day, such as by making a to-do list or setting reminders, can help you feel more prepared and in control.
18. Update your planner for the following day
Updating your planner for the following day can be a great way to productively reduce stress and anxiety before bed. Taking the time to organise your tasks for the next day can help you feel more prepared and in control, allowing you to drift off into a peaceful sleep.
Start by writing down all of your tasks for the next day, prioritising them in order of importance. This will help you focus on the most important tasks first and ensure that you don’t forget anything.
19. Write down any ideas that come to mind
Writing down any ideas that come to mind before bed can be a great way to empty your mind and enable you to get a more restful night's sleep. Instead of hundreds, if not thousands, of thoughts racing through your mind as you lie there!
The better the sleep and rest you have, the more productive you will be. Therefore, by using the Morning Mindset Journal, which has been specifically designed to help creatives get their thoughts out of their heads, you will be able to get the well-earned rest that you so deserve.
20. Make a list of tasks you need to complete tomorrow
Making a list of tasks you need to complete tomorrow can be a great way to productively reduce stress and anxiety before bed. Taking the time to organise your tasks for the next day can help you feel more prepared and in control, allowing you to drift off into a peaceful sleep.
Start by writing down all of your tasks for the next day, prioritising them in order of importance. This will help you focus on the most important tasks first and ensure that you don’t forget anything.
Here at OCCO London, we have developed The Priority Pad, which is a great tool for listing out all your tasks and helping break them up into what you need to do now, what you can schedule, what you can delete, or what needs doing next.
21. Make use of a journal
A tool that a lot of successful people use in their daily life is a journal. It acts as a great way to express your thoughts and feelings before bed, or in the morning. By writing down your thoughts in a journal, it can help you process them, allowing you to drift off into a peaceful sleep.
The OCCO London Mindset Journal has a gratitude list and affirmation prompts, along with space to freely journal, further helping you to get a restful night's sleep.
22. Level up financially
Taking the time to review your finances and plan for the future can help you get more control of your money, allowing you to drift off into a peaceful sleep.
Start by writing down all of your financial goals for the next day, month, or year. This will help you to focus on what is important and ensure that you are making progress towards your goals.
23. Do a digital declutter
Taking the time to organise your digital files, emails, and other documents can help you feel more in control of your digital life because, let’s face it, we all have too much digital clutter!
Start by sorting through your emails and deleting any that are no longer relevant. Then organise your files into folders and delete any that you no longer need.
Having covered those last six points on organisation, you are going to hopefully be so damn efficient and productive! Let's cover some more productive things you can do before bed on the topic of routines.
Create A Routine
Creating the key habit of having a nightly routine can help you stay productive and focused, allowing you to get more done and achieve your goals more quickly. For example, having a consistent routine before bed can help you wind down and relax, preparing your mind for sleep.
Creating a routine of going to bed at a consistent time, will help to regulate your body's natural rhythms and ensure that you are getting the restful sleep that you need. With a regular sleep cycle in place, you will be able to drift off into a peaceful slumber each night.
24. Setting an alarm to remind you when it’s time to start winding down
Setting an alarm to remind you when it’s time to start winding down can be a great way to ensure that you get enough rest and are productive the next day. By setting an alarm, you will be reminded to start your bedtime routine, allowing you to get a good night’s sleep.
25. Make a list of tasks for the next day
Making a list of tasks for the next day can help you stay organised and focused, allowing you to get more done in less time. Start by writing down all of your tasks for the next day, prioritising them in order of importance.
This will help you focus on the most important tasks first and ensure that you don’t forget anything. What's more, setting this as a daily routine will enable you to be much more productive in the long run.
25. Give yourself time to stop
Being productive is all well and good until it all gets too much, and then it really isn't all right! I can hear you thinking to yourself, "But I have got so much to do," and that is OK. What is not acceptable is that you burn yourself out trying to achieve success, because when you do, you will not be in a fit state to enjoy it!
Please factor some rest into your routine, as it is possible to productively rest!
26. Unplugging from screens and devices
In today's world, it can be hard to unplug from our devices and screens. But taking the time to disconnect from technology before bed can help you relax and get a better night’s sleep.
To do this, try avoiding bright light from screens for at least an hour before bedtime. This will help your body naturally wind down and prepare for sleep. Also, turning off all electronic devices in your bedroom a few hours before bedtime will create a more peaceful environment that is conducive to restful sleep.
Start by setting a timer for yourself and turning off all of your devices at least an hour before bedtime. This will give you time to unwind without the distraction of technology.
You now have some great productivity ideas to implement in creating a routine; let's cover how reflecting could help you.
Reflect And Set Goals
Reflecting on your day and setting goals for tomorrow can be a great way to stay productive and motivated.
27. Reflect on the day's events and write down any lessons learned
Take a few minutes to reflect on the day's events and write down any positive outcomes that you have experienced. This will help you stay focused and motivated and identify areas where you can continue to grow and improve.
The act of reflection can also help you think about why some elements of the day went well, and why other elements didn't go so well, enabling you to adjust accordingly in the future.
28. Set yourself some SMART goals
Goals are always useful in helping you stay productive and focused, but setting what you call "SMART goals" can help you stay on track and achieve your goals faster.
SMART goals are:
- Specific: simple, sensible, and significant
- Measurable: meaningful, and motivating
- Achievable: agreed, and attainable
- Relevant: reasonable, realistic, resourced, and results-based
- Time-bound: time-based, time-limited, time-and-cost-limited, timely, and time-sensitive
Setting SMART goals increases your chances of success dramatically!
29. Reflect on your life
Take some time to think about where you are in life, what you have achieved so far, and what you want to achieve in the future.
By reflecting on your past and present, you can gain clarity on your goals and create a plan for the future. This can help you stay focused and motivated, as well as give you a greater sense of purpose.
Take Care Of Your Home
Being productive doesn't always have to be focused on yourself; it could also be aimed at the environment you are in.
30. Do some light cleaning or tidying up around your home
This could be as simple as putting away any dishes, wiping down surfaces, or organising your desk. Doing this will help you start the next day feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Additionally, it will also make it easier for you to find things when you need them.
31. Make sure all your dishes are washed and put away
Making sure all your dishes are washed and put away before you go to bed is a great way to start the next day off on the right foot.
Not only will it make your kitchen look neat and tidy, but it will also save you time in the morning when you’re trying to get ready for work.
32. Put away any clothes or items that are lying around
Putting away any clothes or items that are lying around can help to make your home more organised and tidy. It also helps to create a sense of calm and order in your environment, which can be beneficial for both your mental and physical health.
Additionally, it will also save you time in the morning when you’re trying to get ready for work. Taking a few minutes before bed to put away any items that are lying around can make a big difference in the morning.
33. Vacuum, sweep and dust
If you're looking for a physically productive task, then look no further! Vacuuming, sweeping, and dusting can help keep your home clean and free of dust and dirt.
This is especially important if you have pets or allergies, as it will help reduce the number of allergens in your home and will also make it look and feel much cleaner and more inviting.
34. Organizing your desk space for better peace of mind
Taking the time to organise your desk before bed can help you start the next day with a sense of clarity and focus, which is particularly beneficial if you have a busy day ahead.
Start by clearing away any clutter or papers that are no longer needed, and then organise what is left into neat piles or folders. This will help to create a more organised and productive workspace, and it will also help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Learn Something New
Learning something new every day is the one thing that can never be taken away from you, and there are so many ways to learn and things you could become a master of.
35. Listen to audible books
Listening to Audible is a great way to learn something new before bed. Whether it's a book, podcast, or audio lecture, you can find something that interests you and start learning.
Audiblebooks can help to expand your knowledge and understanding of the world around you, as well as give you a greater appreciation for different topics and ideas. Additionally, it can also help to improve your concentration and focus.
36. Create a vision board
Creating a vision board is a great way to stay motivated and inspired. A vision board is essentially a collection of images, words, and phrases that visually represent your goals and dreams.
By creating a vision board, you can keep your goals at the forefront of your mind and remind yourself of what you are working towards. It can also help to increase motivation and focus, as well as provide an outlet for creative expression.
37. Practice an instrument
Playing an instrument before bed is a great way to unwind and relax.Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, playing an instrument can help to reduce stress and anxiety as well as provide a creative outlet.
It can also help to improve your concentration and focus when you are not playing an instrument, as well as give you a sense of accomplishment when you can finally play that song without a wrong note.
38. Start an online course
With the wide range of courses available, you can find one that interests you and start learning. Online courses are often self-paced, so you can work at your own pace and progress as quickly or slowly as you like.
Additionally, online courses are often more affordable than traditional classes, which makes them a great option for those on a budget.
39. Teach yourself something on Youtube
YouTube is a great resource for learning new skills and knowledge. With the vast array of tutorials and videos available, you can teach yourself almost anything from the comfort of your own home.
Whether it's learning how to play an instrument, mastering a new language, or simply brushing up on your knowledge of a certain creative topic, Youtube has something for everyone. What's more is that many tutorials are free to watch, so it's a great way to learn without breaking the bank.
40. Learn a new language
Learning a new language is a great way to expand your knowledge and understanding of the world around you. With the wide range of language learning apps and websites available, you can learn a new language wherever and whenever.
Learning a new language can help you appreciate different cultures and customs while also providing a great way to communicate with others in their native language while on vacation.
We have now covered the forty productive things to do before bed. Pick a few to try over the course of a few weeks and see how it goes.
I'm sure you have some questions regarding our productivity ideas before bed, so we have outlined the most commonly asked questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions
To answer your questions, from the simplest to ones that are somewhat more complex, we have outlined the most commonly answered questions below.
Let's jump straight into some of the most commonly asked questions about this topic.
How can I set up a productive evening routine?
Setting up a productive evening routine can be a great way to ensure that you are making the most of your time and getting the most out of your day.
To do this, it is important to create a plan for yourself and stick to it. A sleep specialist can help you create an effective routine that works best for you. This could include things like setting aside time for relaxation, avoiding screens before bedtime, and engaging in calming activities such as reading or listening to music.
Outlined below are the basic things for you to consider when setting a productive sleep routine:
Set a bedtime and stick to it
Establishing a regular bedtime can help to ensure that you are getting enough rest each night. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.Unplug from technology
Try to limit your use of technology before bed, as it can be distracting and make it difficult to fall asleep.Avoid caffeine
Caffeine can make it difficult to fall asleep, so try to avoid drinking.Write in a journal
Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help to clear your mind before bed, allowing for a more restful sleep.Take a hot bath
Taking a hot bath before bed can help relax your body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep.Listen to calming music
Listening to calming music before bed can help relax your body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep.
There is no right or wrong way; it is simply what works best for you and what you want to achieve.
What is the best way to relax before bed?
The best way to relax before bed is to create a calming environment.
This can include dimming the lights, turning off electronics, and playing soothing music. Also, taking a warm bath or shower can help to relax your body and mind, making it easier to fall into a deep sleep. Other activities, such as reading a book, writing in a journal, or meditating, can also be beneficial for relaxation before bed.
Are there any good productivity tips for getting to sleep earlier?
Yes, there are several good productivity tips for getting to sleep earlier.
One of the most important things is to establish a regular bedtime and stick to it. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help your body get into a routine and make it easier to fall asleep.
Additionally, avoiding caffeine before bed can help you relax and get ready for sleep. Unplugging from technology and avoiding screens before bed can also help to create a calming environment and make it easier to fall asleep.
Finally, taking a warm bath or shower, listening to calming music, reading a book, writing in a journal, or meditating can all be beneficial for relaxation before bed.
How can I ensure a good night’s rest?
Ensuring a good night’s rest is essential for feeling energized and productive the next day.
Here are some tips to help you get a good night’s rest:
Create a calming environment:
Dim the lights, turn off electronics, and play soothing music to create an environment that will help you relax and fall asleep.
Establish a regular bedtime
Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to help your body get into a routine.
Avoid caffeine
Avoid drinking caffeine before bed, as it can make it difficult to fall asleep.
Unplug from technology
Try to limit your use of technology before bed, as it can be distracting and make it difficult to fall asleep.
Take a warm bath
Taking a warm bath before bed can help relax your body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep.
Listen to calming music
Listening to calming music before bed can help relax your body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep.
Write in a journal
Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help to clear your mind before bed, allowing for a more restful sleep.
Meditate
Taking a few minutes to meditate before bed can help relax your body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep.
Avoid heavy meals: Eating a heavy meal close to bedtime can make it difficult to fall asleep.
Exercise
Exercise during the day can help you sleep better at night.
Limit naps
Napping during the day can interfere with your nighttime sleep.
These are just some of the things that you could do or implement to get a better night's sleep; however, you first need to identify what you are wanting to achieve and also what the current blockers are that you are wanting to remove or change.
Is there any way to use technology productively before bedtime?
Yes, there are many ways to use technology productively before bedtime.
For example, listening to a podcast or audiobook can be a great way to relax and unwind before bed. Listening to calming music or nature sounds can also help you relax and prepare for sleep.
Additionally, using an app like Headspace or Calm can help you practise mindfulness and meditation before bed, and reading on a Kindle or other e-reader can be a great way to relax and get plenty of hours of sleep.
Just make sure your time before bed has as little blue light as possible, as this can interfere with your sleep.
Conclusion
There are many productive things to do before bed, and the list above is just to name a few!
Life isn't just about being productive; it's about being calm, happy, and healthy and being in a happy state of mind as much as possible, i.e., having healthy habits.
Getting enough quality sleep is essential for our physical and mental health, yet many of us struggle to get the rest we need. Poor sleep can be caused by a variety of factors, such as stress, a poor diet, and a lack of exercise.
To ensure you get the best night's sleep possible, it's important to establish a bedtime routine that includes productive activities that will help you relax and unwind before bed.
This could include dimming the lights, turning off electronics, playing calming music or nature sounds, meditating or practising mindfulness with an app like Headspace or Calm, listening to a podcast or audiobook, reading on a Kindle or other e-reader, taking a warm bath or shower, writing in a journal to clear your mind before bed, avoiding caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime, and exercising during the day.
By incorporating these activities into your nightly routine, you can help ensure that you get the restful sleep you need for optimal health.
The list we have outlined above is pretty exhaustive; however, not everything you could do is listed. If you feel that something would help you and positively affect your body and mind, then it's probably something that's worth implementing right away.
We hope you have enjoyed this article, and if there are any other subject areas you would like us to cover and discuss, please let us know as we are here to help.
Productivity is the aim, and wellness is the cure!
