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Getting a solid night's sleep is like striking gold, and you better believe the stuff on your nightstand can make or break those ZZZs. According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than one-third of us aren’t getting enough sleep. Whether this is due to stress, poor time management, or other factors, it can be seriously detrimental to our health and overall wellbeing. A restful night's sleep is a precious commodity, and the components on your nightstand can significantly impact the quality of your slumber.
Let's break it down with a curated list of absolute must-haves—think of them as the secret to turning your nightstand into a sleep sanctuary. Because, let's be real, we all deserve a nightstand that's not just a sidekick but a sleep superhero. So, let's dive into the essentials that'll have you waking up ready to conquer the world (or, you know, at least hit snooze only one more time).
The ambiance in your sleep space matters, so try illuminating it with the gentle glow of an adjustable lamp. Once you’ve chosen the perfect lamp to fit your aesthetic, we recommend you use Philips Hue White Ambiance Smart Bulbs. They allow you to customize brightness and warmth, creating a calming atmosphere perfect for winding down.
Try out the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy with a diffuser and calming essential oils. Pair this Vitruvi Glow Defuser paired with lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus oils creates a soothing atmosphere, promoting relaxation and setting the stage for a restful night's sleep. It also acts as a lamp!
Blocking out intrusive light is essential for uninterrupted rest. Slip makes the best sleep masks that are a comfortable and effective solution. They come in any color you could imagine and ensure total darkness so that your sleep is deep and uninterrupted.
A calming read before bedtime can be a ritual that signals your body and mind that it’s time to wind down. We recommended titles like "The Sleep Revolution" by Arianna Huffington or "Why We Sleep" by Matthew Walker for nights when you need to escape into a good book before drifting off.
Maybe you prefer the background noise of a fan or TV, but to fully drown out disturbances and create a consistent sleep environment, a white noise machine is indispensable. The Marpac Dohm Classic White Noise Machine provides a reliable and customizable sound backdrop, masking ambient noise and promoting a serene sleep environment.
If your pillow is as flat as a pancake, we implore you to try out some alternatives. Tailoring your pillow to your preferred comfort level can seriously be a game-changer. We like the Coop Home Goods Adjustable Pillow because it allows you to add or remove fill, ensuring the perfect support for your head and neck.
Ever wondered how much sleep you’re really getting? Gain insights into your sleep patterns with a sleep-tracking device. The Fitbit Charge 4 not only monitors your sleep but also offers features for relaxation and winding down, making it a comprehensive tool for optimizing your sleep routine. Best of all, it’s affordable and even lightweight so you won’t feel it while you snooze.
Nourish your skin and soothe your senses with a sleep-inducing balm. The This Works Deep Sleep Breathe In Rollerball combines lavender and chamomile to promote a sense of calm. It will reduce tension to put your mind at ease for restful sleep, making you feel better than ever when you wake up. We love this product as an addition to your nightly skincare ritual! Consider having lip balm on your nightstand as well, because waking up with dry, cracked lips is the worst.
Clear your mind before sleep by jotting down thoughts or expressions of gratitude in a journal. The Five Minute Journal provides a structured space for reflective writing so you can unload your mind and prepare for rest. It has great prompts to end your day with some well-thought-out reflection.
Who doesn’t love a lightweight, cozy blanket? It’s practically essential for sleeping in comfort. Our pick is the Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Blanket since it offers warmth without heaviness, ensuring a snug and restful night.
Upgrade your wake-up routine with a smart alarm clock. The Hatch Restore 2 not only wakes you up gently but can also be programmed to play soothing sounds as you fall asleep, contributing to a more harmonious sleep-wake cycle.
Although sleep experts recommend against it, you’re probably scrolling on your phone before bed most nights. Don’t worry—we’re guilty of it too! But, try to minimize exposure to disruptive blue light with glasses like Swanwick Blue Light Blocking Glasses. Wearing them in the evening can reduce eye strain and promote a more natural transition to sleep by reducing the impact of artificial light on your circadian rhythm.
By curating your sleep environment with these thoughtful essentials, you're creating a functional space that encourages restorative sleep. Filling your nightstand with sleep must-haves isn't just about making it look Insta-worthy; it's about turning that space into the ultimate sleep sanctuary. Tweak these suggestions to fit your vibe and ensure that you wake up refreshed and ready to face the day ahead.
