Tired of counting sheep? We partnered with Kiehl’s Canada – known for the finest apothecary skincare – to discover the ultimate sleep ritual, and came up with these six crucial steps to switching off and unwinding. Check out our bedtime necessities – from the best sleepytime teas to our favourite nighttime mask routines– and pick the ones that work for you. Trust us – you’ll feel so relaxed, you’ll be more than happy to cut the Instagram scroll short.
Snooze alert: Can’t wait to try our calming blends? We’ll be sampling our hibiscus and lavender-strewn Serenity Now tea for free in all Kiehl’s boutiques across Canada – every weekend in May!
Follow the 30-minute rule
No more bedtime emails or Pinterest-ing (your dream kitchen can wait). Shutting off your screen 30 minutes before going to bed is said to help relax the brain. It’s also a great way to disconnect from your day.
Snuggle up with a warm cup of tea
When it comes to cozy bedtime rituals, nothing beats a warm cup of herbal tea (sorry, Pinot Noir). Chill out with chamomile-based blends like Dream On and Calming Chamomile. Or skip dessert and sip on sweet and satisfying Valerian Nights or Forever Nuts for an indulgent nightcap. Still not cutting it? Reach for Mother’s Little Helper – a soothing infusion made with valerian root (aka nature’s valium). Dreamland is just a cup away…
Indulge in a nighttime skincare routine
Our favourite thing to do before bed? Pamper ourselves with a little nighttime skincare. We’re all about complexion-saving ingredients that make us feel good inside and out (hello, Forever Flawless). That’s why Kiehl’s is our perfect match. When it comes to healthy glowing skin, we like to reach for their Midnight Recovery Concentrate, featuring soothing lavender oil and radiance-boosting primrose oil.
Any pamper routine would not be complete without a Kiehl’s nature-inspired face mask. If you’re looking for smoother-looking skin, nothing beats their Ginger Leaf & Hibiscus Firming Overnight Face Mask. The hibiscus hydrates and firms, while the sustainably sourced ginger leaf has anti-aging properties so you can wake up every morning with noticeably smoother, more radiant and firmer skin. For an extra dose of relaxation, pair it with a cup of Serenity Now – an herbal infusion that’s also packed with skin-loving ingredients like hibiscus, lavender and restful rosehips.
Set the mood with your favourite scents
Amplify the cozy factor by infusing your bedroom with an essential oil. Not sure where to start? You can’t go wrong with a tried and true scent like lavender, which is hailed for its calming properties. Or light up your fave candle 1-2 hours before bed so your room is filled with the soothing scent. Just don’t forget to blow out the flame before you slip between the sheets!
Read a book or start a journal
No screens, no problem. Take your mind off your crazy day by reading a book, sketching or jotting down your thoughts in a journal. Journaling doesn’t have to take time. If you find yourself going through your to-do list for the next day, just write it down – it’s a great way to free your mind before bedtime. Sometimes two simple bullet points are all you need to let it all go.
Turn down heat
Before turning in, make sure to turn down the heat. Studies show a cooler room (think 19ºC/66ºF) is super conducive to a good night’s sleep. It makes you feel less restless and is an excellent excuse for cozying up to your partner/pet/pillow – or all three.
