Creating space for rest
Rest is not laziness — it's a skill. Why so many of us struggle to switch off, and how to practise resting without guilt.
By Dr. Hannah Reid · Rest 
Dr. Hannah Reid 2 min read
Creating a sustainable evening routine
A wind-down routine only helps if you actually keep it. How to build one that survives busy weeks — plus a simple checklist.
Dr. Hannah Reid 2 min read 
We often hear from members who’ve tried an ambitious bedtime routine — no screens after 8, herbal tea, journaling, a bath, reading — and given up after three days. The problem usually isn’t motivation. It’s that the routine was too big.
Think “wind-down”, not “perfect”
The purpose of an evening routine is to signal to your body and mind that the day is ending. Small, repeatable cues work better than a long list of rules.
A simple evening checklist
- Dim the main lights about an hour before bed
- Write tomorrow’s top three tasks so they’re off your mind
- Put your phone to charge outside the bedroom (or across the room)
- Do one calming activity: reading, gentle stretching or a short guided audio
- Go to bed at roughly the same time most nights
You don’t need to do all of these. Choose two and practise them for a couple of weeks.
Plan for busy nights
Decide in advance what your “minimum routine” looks like — maybe just dimming the lights and a few slow breaths. On hectic evenings, that still counts.
If you experience ongoing sleep problems, please speak with your doctor. Our Sleep & recovery program is educational and supportive, not a medical treatment.
