Unwinding Naturally
Building a Nighttime Sleep Routine for Better Health
SLEEP
10/10/20252 min read
Unwinding Naturally: Building a Nighttime Sleep Routine for Better Health
In our fast-paced, screen-saturated world, sleep is becoming more elusive than ever. Many of us go to bed physically tired but mentally wired — scrolling, streaming, or just unable to switch off. But what if creating a simple, nourishing nighttime routine could transform not only your sleep but your digestion, mood, and entire sense of well-being?
Here are a few practices that are easy to implement and deeply supportive:
1. Power Down Screens at Least One Hour Before Bed
Blue light from screens interferes with melatonin production, the hormone responsible for helping us fall asleep. One of the most effective ways to improve sleep quality is to turn off screens at least one hour before bedtime.
Can’t avoid screens altogether? Consider wearing blue-blocker glasses in the evening to reduce the impact of blue light and support your natural circadian rhythm. Your body and brain need darkness to signal it’s time to rest — give it that gift.
2. Practice Deep Breathing to Calm the Nervous System
Even five minutes of conscious, diaphragmatic breathing can shift your body from the “fight or flight” stress response into a “rest and digest” state. Try this simple technique:
Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 6.
Repeat for 5–10 minutes as you lie in bed.
This helps slow the heart rate, regulate cortisol, and signal to your body that it’s safe to rest.
3. Incorporate Block Therapy for Sleep & Digestion
One deeply restorative addition to your evening routine is Block Therapy — a unique self-care method that uses a specially designed block to release fascia, improve blood and oxygen flow, and activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the one responsible for rest, repair, and digestion).
Block Therapy (from blocktherapy.com) isn’t just about physical release. It teaches you how to breathe deeply, down-regulate stress, and reconnect with your body’s natural rhythms — all of which contribute to better sleep and improved digestive function.
Even a 10- to 15-minute practice in the evening can be profoundly grounding.
Why a Nighttime Routine Matters
A consistent bedtime routine isn’t just for kids — it tells your brain and body, “It’s time to rest.”
Just like we train ourselves to be alert in the morning with coffee or a to-do list, we can train ourselves to wind down with rhythm, intention, and presence.
When you prioritize sleep hygiene, support your nervous system with breathing or fascia release, and eliminate disruptive stimuli like blue light, you’ll likely notice:
✅ Deeper, more restful sleep
✅ Better digestion overnight
✅ Reduced anxiety and emotional balance
✅ Improved energy and clarity the next day
Final Thought
Sleep is not a luxury — it’s a biological necessity. And your body is always seeking balance; you just need to give it the right cues. Start small. One habit at a time. Your future, well-rested self will thank you.
Reach out today to begin your homeopathic healing journey!
Tammy Bydlon, RN •Homeopathy & Functional Health Consultant •Stillwater MN | Virtual Consultations Available
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