The holidays are insane. Finishing up work, wrapping up gifting (literally), and getting to all the get-togethers is fun, but exhausting. Ahead of the holidays, I like to really focus on recharging and that means a lot of time by myself and doing self-care, at home. This way I have energy and space to be present when I’m with my family.
Winding down is one of my favorite parts of the day. It gives you time to reflect, relax and indulge in things you enjoy. In this post I’m sharing the most effective evening practices to prep your mind and body to release, relax and recuperate. Here are some things I try to do every night:
LAURYN’S WIND-DOWN ROUTINE:
Warm Eucalyptus Shower:
Grab some eucalyptus leaves from the farmer’s market, rinse them off, roll over them with a rolling pin to release aromas, then use a hair tie to wrap it around your shower head. Your steamy shower will create the most spa-like experience. Dim the lights, use your Non-Toxic Candle to up the ambience and use your favorite body wash to get rid of the day. I use Flamingo Estate’s Body Wash because I love the earthy smell.
When I get out I’ll use Primally Pure’s Almond Vanilla Body Butter and sculpt with The Skinny Confidential Body Sculptor. I’ve noticed such a difference in my cellulite and muscle tone since I started using it. And it just feels good after a warm shower.
After this, I’ll do my skincare in the warm light of the Salt Rock Lamp and Non-Toxic Candle. I always double cleanse and right now I’m using Barefaced Toning Pads (code SKINNY) which have done wonders for my hyperpigmentation, Epicuren Colostrum Cream, and I switch it up with sheet masks. Yina Masks and SKIN111 are go-to’s.
The Skinny Confidential Facial Massager is something I use every night and sometimes I run it under hot water (you can do this with the ice roller too). The grippy pink balls chisel your face and is a nice little lymphatic drainage situation before you lie down.
If my kids go to bed early, I’ll try to do the Infrared Sauna before this, but that doesn’t always happen.
Weighted Neck Pillow:
An addiction. I have these weighted, herb-scented pillows that you drape over your neck and shoulders. You can warm it in the microwave but I recently got a salon warmer and it works perfectly. So at night, I’ll grab Pique Ginger Digestive Tea with some raw honey from the farmer’s market, a book, put my feet up and sit there with my warm neck pillow. It’s the most relaxing experience. If you’re looking for a good book, I’ve recently read these and highly recommend: From Here to the Great Unknown, and All the Colors of the Dark.
Mouth Tape:
Mouth tape has changed my life. After using it for a year I’ve noticed brighter eyes, a sculpted jawline, a stronger chin profile, and so much energy in the morning. And of course, the deepest sleep I’ve ever had. If you’re new to mouth tape, check out these beginner tips to help you get used to nasal breathing. After doing your skincare, wait 15 minutes for your products to absorb before applying your mouth tape.
Set Alarm:
If you like waking up slowly and gently, you need to get a Hatch Alarm. It’s the most natural way to wake up with slow and steady beautiful sounds and a light that mimics the sunrise. Highly recommend this if you’re looking to elevate your sleep routine.
Other Wind-Down Tips:
+ Our house is pitch black unless the light is from red light bulbs or salt rock lamps.
+ The thermostat is always set to 69 degrees.
+ Jaspr Air Filter always, but on high before bed. We’ve noticed a huge difference in how we feel since using them. You can listen to the founders in this episode of The HIM & HER Show.
+ Use the Soakk app for a sleep playlist and relaxing frequencies. They rid your body of anxiety and promote relaxation.
+ Spend 10 minutes outside at night, either on my balcony or going for a walk. Ending the day outdoors while it’s getting dark has been essential in my wind-down routine lately.
+ I leave my windows and shades open until right before I get into bed.
+ The phone is nowhere near me unless I’m listening to a meditation or something uplifting, and it’s on airplane mode.
Through all of this, my top tip for winding down is to end your night with positivity and only things that are inspiring and uplifting. I truly believe the last thing you consume before going to sleep affects your dreams and your subconscious so make sure you’re thoughtful about what you’re looking at.
x, Lauryn
+ Shop the wind-down routine here.
++ Last minute stocking stuffers and gift ideas.
WIND DOWN:
