Let Go of Worries Before Bed

mindfulness-sleep

How to

• Turn off lights and light-emitting electronics, such as televisions, e-readers and phones.
• Let your mind wander to calming thoughts. Think about something that brings you tranquility and peace.
• Focus on the thought and expand upon the details.
• Let go of worries. If any worries or stresses emerge in your mind, redirect them to your tranquil, peaceful thoughts.
• Visualize positive moments and people in your life.

Why

We’ve probably all spent time staring at the ceiling, unable to sleep because of worries and thoughts in our heads. Learning how to quiet those thoughts and replace them with positive alternatives may help you drift into sleep.

What the Science Says

Clearing your mind may help you sleep, but the reverse can also be true: Regular sleep may reduce your worries. People who go to bed late and sleep for shorter periods of time often have more negative thoughts than those who sleep regular hours, one study found.