For the longest time, I struggled to find a wind-down routine that actually worked. I tried everything—journaling, stretching, even just staring at the ceiling—but nothing stuck. My mind would race, and I'd end up scrolling on my phone until I was way past my bedtime. Sound familiar?
Then, a few months ago, I decided to try something different: reading for just 30 minutes before bed. It seemed simple enough, and honestly, I didn't have high hopes. I thought I'd get bored or fall asleep after five minutes. But to my surprise, it's become the best part of my day.
Why 30 Minutes Is the Magic Number
The key for me has been the time limit. Thirty minutes feels manageable, not like a chore. It's long enough to get lost in a story but not so long that it feels overwhelming. If I only get through a chapter or two, that's okay. There’s no pressure to hit a certain page count. This low-stakes approach has made reading feel like a treat, not a task.
It’s also an incredible way to disconnect from the digital world. The blue light from our screens messes with our sleep, and getting lost in a physical book is a welcome escape. I've found that when I close the book, my mind is already calmer. The stories and characters I've been with just a moment ago are so much more peaceful than the never-ending news cycle or the latest social media drama.
The Unexpected Benefits
Beyond just helping me fall asleep faster, this routine has had some other wonderful side effects:
Improved Focus: During the day, my attention is constantly divided. Spending 30 uninterrupted minutes on one thing—a single book—has helped train my focus.
A Deeper Connection to Books: I'm no longer rushing through books just to say I finished them. I'm taking my time, letting the words sink in, and truly enjoying the experience.
Better Sleep Quality: This one is a big win. My sleep has become so much more restful. Waking up without that groggy feeling is a game-changer.
If you've been looking for a way to slow down and create a more peaceful evening routine, I can’t recommend this enough. You don’t need to read for hours. Just set a timer, pick up a book you're excited about, and give it a try. You might be surprised at how much a little bit of reading can do for your mind and soul.
Do you have a pre-sleep routine? Let me know in the comments!
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