As the weather starts getting colder, my production levels start to decline. If you’re the same, it’s okay; it’s totally natural. But, to combat the symptoms of fall, and to ensure you don’t come home from a long day just to bed rot until 1 a.m., you must stay consistent with a nightly routine. Provided in this article is a rough outline of a semi-productive nighttime routine that is sure to keep you guilt-free and relaxed.
My night routine typically commences at 5 or 6 p.m., but your night routine can start whenever you get home from work or school. I know all you want to do is change into your pj’s, but resist the urge! Keep your work or school clothes on, it will keep you in a working mindset which will, in turn, keep you on task.
Now that we have established that, let’s make dinner. Meal prepping is a great way to save time, but also ensure you are eating healthy. I like to prepare taco bowls, salads, or protein-grain-vegetable combos in advance, which only require a microwave and a few extra ingredients to enjoy.
After dinner, I like to spend 30 minutes on my couch to decompress; this could include reading a book, scrolling on social media, or watching some television. But, be warned, this part of my night routine is a breeding ground for unwanted naps; it is essential to watch the time and remind yourself that your day isn’t over yet.
After some much needed relaxation, it’s time to get your body moving again. I like to throw on some workout clothes and head to the gym, but if you don’t have a gym membership or rather stay home, at-home workouts are just as good. The point of this aspect of your nightly routine is to take some time to practice self-care, get your heart rate pumping, and body moving (especially after sitting hunched over at a desk all day). I enjoy working out because it helps with my mind-body connection; it’s important to not always put pressure on yourself in terms of working out whether that be in regards to weight loss, strength, or toning goals. To me, working out should be enjoyable and make you feel good, and if you’re moving your body in any way, you are absolutely doing enough.
Now that you worked out, you are definitely a little sweaty – time to shower. My shower routine consists of Tree Hut body scrub, Truly body wash, Pantene’s Miracle Moisture Boost shampoo and conditioner, and of course, water that is way too hot. After the shower, indulge in much needed skincare with the Summer Friday’s Summer Silk body lotion and matching Lip Butter Balm.
Arguably the most important part of your evening is next: preparing for the next day to make your early morning goes as smooth as possible. I like to pack my lunch the day before and throw it in the refrigerator so the next morning I can simply grab it, add an ice pack, and go. Pro tip: remember that some items can get soggy (like your croutons is your yummy salad), so try to keep that in mind when bagging. Next, I like to lay out my outfit for the next day – remember to check the weather! Lastly, I need to pack my school or work bag the night before to ensure I don’t forget anything. All of this alleviates so much stress in the mornings and, for the most part, makes me a lot more organized for the day ahead.
“Nights before class I try to be consistent with packing a lunch, picking out an outfit, putting my school bag together, etc. But, it’s hard for me to do every night because of everything I have going on,” shared Jordyn Rosen, senior communication student.
Sarah Eidelman, also a senior communication student, added, “I do try to prepare for my mornings by figuring out my schedule for the following day the night before. For example, if I am attending a workout class in the morning I know I will need to pick out an outfit for that or if I’m filming a podcast I know I will need more time in the morning to pick out a nicer outfit and make sure I look camera ready.”
By now, it’s probably around 8 or 9 p.m., and you’re starting to lose more energy. Finally, change into your comfiest pair of pj’s, grab a snack and some water (you need it), and hop into bed. Put on your favorite show, movie, or grab a good book. But, do not, I repeat, do not, start doom scrolling. Unless you have a lot of self-control, if you start scrolling on Tiktok or Instagram, you may not stop until 1 a.m.
Having a nightly routine can help you stay organized and stress-free. Eidelman added, “I think having a nightly routine is definitely beneficial for college students. Many of us are in various clubs and organizations and working jobs on top of being full time students. Because we are so busy, it makes it even more important to carve out time to decompress and relax at the end of the day.”
I know having a nightly routine is not always possible for college students, as our schedules are hectic, sometimes leaving us to finally arrive home at 10 p.m., fully drained. Rosen agreed, “In general I think it’s beneficial to have a night routine to prepare for the next day, but it can be hard for college students because most student’s don’t have a set schedule every week. Activities for school, clubs, greek life, work, etc. are always changing.”
But, there is value in setting up some type of daily or nightly routine, regardless of what it looks like.
