For years, I struggled with inconsistent sleep. While capable of sleeping for 12+ hours when unrestrained, daily life often limited me to six, leaving me perpetually under-rested. Instead of accepting this as normal, I decided to transform my sleep routine into a luxurious, spa-like experience. This is how I did it, and why it matters.
Why Upgrade Sleep? Sleep deprivation isn’t just about tiredness; it impacts mood, health, and productivity. Treating sleep as a priority – not a luxury – is a fundamental self-care investment. The goal isn’t just to sleep more, but to sleep better.
The Foundation: Pillows & Bedding
The first step was upgrading core sleep elements. Down pillows, while comfortable, degrade quickly. Latex pillows offer durability, but finding the right one is crucial. After testing multiple brands, the Naturepedic Adjustable Organic Latex Pillow proved ideal. It’s heavy yet supportive, adjustable to personal preference, and emits a subtle, naturally sweet scent from the tree sap latex, promoting relaxation.
Bedding followed suit. Years-old bamboo sheets felt out of place in my small apartment. Switching to heavy, stonewashed linen – the Baloo Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set – instantly elevated the room’s aesthetic and comfort. The weight and texture create a sense of luxury, reinforcing the idea of sleep as a dedicated ritual.
Environment: Light, Air, & Temperature
Next came controlling the sleep environment. While I prefer sleeping with windows open, managing light and air quality was essential. Quince Heavyweight European Linen Curtains not only darkened the room but also added a visual anchor, making the space feel more intentional.
Air quality was addressed with two key appliances: a Levoit Classic 300S Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier to combat dry winter air, and a Clorox Medium Room True HEPA Air Purifier to filter out outdoor odors. These aren’t just functional; the humidifier’s mist creates a calming ambiance, while the purifier ensures clean air for deep, restful sleep.
The Bedtime Ritual: From Shower to Sleep
The most significant change was transforming my bedtime routine. Gone were the rushed teeth-brushing and immediate bed-dives. Instead, I adopted a structured wind-down:
- The Evening Shower: A warm shower signals the body that it’s time to relax, separating the day from the night. This is a non-negotiable part of the routine.
- Sophisticated Sleepwear: Trading T-shirts and boxers for dedicated pajamas – a Boll & Branch set in my case – reinforces the shift into sleep mode. It’s a psychological cue that it’s time to rest.
- Sleep Accessories: A comfortable sleep mask (like the Cozy Earth mask) blocks out light, while earplugs (Loop Dream are on my list) minimize noise.
Why Rituals Matter: Consistent routines prime the brain for sleep. The body learns to associate these actions with rest, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading sleep isn’t about extravagance; it’s about prioritizing well-being. By investing in comfort, environment, and routine, I transformed sleep from a chore into a restorative experience. The result? Deeper rest, improved mood, and a greater sense of control over my daily life.
The writer received products for editorial consideration but all opinions are their own.
