Silent Nights: Tips for Better Sleep During the Holidays

I don’t know about you, but I find the holiday season to be exhausting. It also seems to be when my sleep hits rock bottom. Between holiday parties, family gatherings, and late-night gift wrapping, it’s no surprise that sleep can take a backseat. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Here are some tips to help you keep your nights merry and bright (but not too bright) this holiday season.

Keep a Consistent Sleep Schedule (as Much as Possible)

Yes, I know—the holiday season is all about breaking routines. But your body’s internal clock doesn’t take a vacation. Try to go to bed and wake up around the same time every day, even if it’s tempting to stay up for one more Hallmark movie or sleep in after a late night. A little consistency can go a long way in keeping your sleep on track. If your schedule does get thrown off, aim to get back on track as quickly as possible to avoid prolonged disruptions.

Watch Out for Holiday Treat Overload

Cookies, eggnog, and spiced lattes, oh my! Indulging in festive goodies is part of the fun, but consuming too much sugar, caffeine, or alcohol close to bedtime can leave you tossing and turning. Try to enjoy these treats earlier in the day so your body has time to wind down before sleep. Hydration also matters—staying hydrated throughout the day can help you feel better and sleep better, even after indulging.

Create a Cozy Sleep Environment

If you’re traveling or hosting guests, your sleep setup might not be ideal. Bring along a few sleep essentials, like an eye mask, earplugs, or even your favorite pillow. If you’re at home, make sure your room is cool, dark, and quiet—bonus points for adding a festive touch like fairy lights or a calming holiday scent (think lavender and pine, not peppermint candy canes!). Consider playing soft, ambient holiday music or white noise to drown out any extra household commotion.

Say No When You Need To

The holidays can come with a lot of pressure to do it all. But overcommitting can lead to stress, which isn’t exactly sleep-friendly. Give yourself permission to say no to that extra party or last-minute cookie swap. Your future well-rested self will thank you. Remember, saying no to some activities means saying yes to the ones that matter most to you.

Don’t Forget to Unwind

Amid the holiday hustle, make time for relaxation. Whether it’s reading a favorite book, doing some gentle yoga, or sipping herbal tea by the fire, calming activities can help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. Bonus points if you avoid your phone—the blue light can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. If your evenings are packed, even setting aside 10 minutes for yourself can make a difference.

Manage Midnight Worries

Does your mind race as soon as your head hits the pillow? You’re not alone. The holidays can bring up a lot of emotions, and those mental to-do lists are no joke. Keep a notebook by your bed to jot down any late-night worries or tasks so you can let them go until morning. Sometimes, just getting it out of your head is enough to help you relax. Pair this with a few deep breathing exercises to calm your body and mind.

Prioritize Movement During the Day

The holidays often come with long periods of sitting—whether it’s during travel, holiday meals, or binge-watching your favorite holiday movies. Make it a point to stay active during the day. Even a short walk or some light stretching can help regulate your energy levels and prepare your body for better sleep at night.

Remember, It’s Okay Not to Be Perfect

Holiday magic doesn’t come from perfectly coordinated decor or a Pinterest-worthy dinner—it’s about spending time with the people you care about. So, if the gifts aren’t wrapped perfectly or you need to leave a party early to catch up on sleep, that’s okay. Prioritizing your well-being is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Plus, your loved ones will appreciate you being more present and refreshed.

Wishing You Restful Nights and Joyful Days

This Holiday Season, give yourself the gift of good sleep. By prioritizing rest, you’ll have the energy to fully enjoy all the magic the season has to offer. So, here’s to a holiday filled with silent nights, cozy mornings, and plenty of sweet dreams. Cheers to you and your sleep this holiday season!

Ready to start your journey to better sleep? Schedule a FREE 15-minute phone consultation today and let’s make restful nights part of your holiday season.