Figure out your wake up time based on what time you need to get to school or work and how long your routine may take. For example, if you have to be at work or school at 8 and it takes you an hour to get ready and a ½ hour to commute, you need to wake up no later than 6:30 am. Build in a cushion in case you run late. Avoid using an alarm that plays loud and banging music or that has annoying high-pitched noises. Open your eyes and let them get used to the light. Sit up and then slowly get out of bed. Try some light stretching or yoga to get your blood flowing. [4] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source
Have 2-3 foods and include at least one item from the following groups: bread and grain, milk and milk products, and fruits or vegetables. For example, you could have a slice of toast, a cup of yogurt, a banana and cereal for a healthy breakfast. Keep portable options like breakfast bars and fruit like apples and bananas for times when you’re running late. Consider setting out breakfast items the night before. This can help streamline your routine.
Use warm water between 36 and 40 degrees Celcius (or 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit) so that you don’t scald yourself. [6] X Research source Check the temperature with a thermometer or stick your hand and foot in the water stream for a second. Use a cleanser or soap that is gentle and has a neutral pH. [7] X Trustworthy Source DermNet NZ Online clinical resource website written and run by dermatologists providing evidence-based information about dermatology and skin health Go to source You may want to consider brushing your teeth in the shower to conserve water. Dry yourself off completely.
Use a separate moisturizer for your face and body. The skin on your face is thinner and can be prone to breakouts. Make sure to use a product formulated for your skin type. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Apply any treatment creams for acne or other conditions before your moisturizer. Consider warming the moisturizer between your hands or fingers before application. This may help it absorb more quickly.
Streamline your makeup routine so it is as light as possible. This can save you time and help you look natural. Consider keeping your hairstyle as simple as possible, to help you save time. If you want to try something more elaborate, do a style that you can get easily overnight. For example, if you want waves or curls, you can either put your hair in a bun or braid it before you go to bed. After your shower, take it out and let your curls fall.
Make sure your clothes are ironed or free of wrinkles. One easy way to release wrinkles is by hanging your clothes in the bathroom while you shower. The steam can help get rid of minor bumps and wrinkles. Consider taking layers in case you go outside. For example, you might want to take a cute cardigan or jacket if you go out for drinks after class or work. Put on any jewelry you’d like to wear. Spray a nice, light perfume on yourself. It may help people remember you because studies have shown that scent is closely tied to memory. [9] X Research source
Keep a list on the refrigerator or other place you can see so you know what you need every day. You can also keep notes in your phone. Consider putting out most of your belongings the evening before so you don’t forget anything or cause yourself undue stress.
Get as much done at work or in school as possible so you can enjoy a more relaxed evening.
Set out the clothing you want to wear or a couple of options. Make sure the clothes are ironed if necessary. Pack your lunch or any snacks you’ll have. Get breakfast items, such as bowls, foods, and glasses, ready. You may also want to set your coffee machine alarm so you have warm coffee when you get up.
Set the temperature between 60-75 degrees and open a window or run a fan to keep the air circulating. [12] X Research source Remove electronics from your room, which can stimulate and stress you. [13] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Block out any sources of light. If you need a nightlight, consider a non-stimulating color such as red. [14] X Research source Fluff up your mattress, pillows, and sheets so it feels like a cloud. [15] X Research source
Set your bed time so that you can get 7-9 hours of sleep a night and so you have time to shift into bedtime mode. For example, if you need to get up at 6:30am, you would need to be in bed by 11:30pm at the latest. Start shifting into bedtime mode about 2-3 hours before your set bedtime.
Avoid electronics or devices if you can because they may stimulate your brain, making it hard to relax and fall asleep. [18] X Research source Dim lights in your room to signal your brain and body it’s slowly time for sleep. [19] X Research source
Remove your makeup and wash your face with warm water. Choose entertainment that you can do in dimmed light like reading or stroking your pet. [21] X Research source Drink warm milk or herbal tea, like peppermint, lavender or chamomile to relax yourself. Take a warm bath to further relax you and help you get drowsy. [22] X Research source Give yourself a massage. There is some evidence that massaging essential oils on to your feet or temples may help you relax and sleep. Make sure to brush your teeth thoroughly for at least 2 minutes. Set your alarm.
Tense each of your muscle groups tightly for five seconds starting with your feet and working towards your head. Release muscles after five seconds and take a deep breath before starting the next group. [24] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Get up if you can’t fall asleep within 20 minutes. Try doing something relaxing like reading in dimmed light or listening to white noise. Get back into bed after 20 minutes, and repeat the pattern until you fall asleep. [26] X Research source
