You found our list of tips for creating a bed-time routine for self-love.

Between the fast-paced energy of NYC living and the endless to-do lists, it’s easy to put yourself last. But your evenings should be more than just collapsing into bed exhausted. A bedtime routine rooted in self-love helps you unwind, reconnect, and prepare for restorative sleep—so you can wake up feeling refreshed and empowered. Here’s how to build a nourishing nighttime ritual that feels like a gift to yourself.

Looking to transform your morning routine? Check out our founder Amy’s Tips to Transform Your Morning Routine.

This list includes:

Tips for restful sleep
Bedtime journaling prompts
Bedtime relaxation techniques
Meditation and breathing for sleep
Nighttime skincare ritual
Unplugged nighttime routine

Let’s get to it!

A Bedtime Routine for Self-Love: Ending Your Day with Intention

From skincare to journaling to creating the perfect environment for sleep, here are our tips for bed-time routine built for your well-being.

1. Set the Mood for Relaxation

Transform your bedroom into a sanctuary. Dim the lights, light a non-toxic candle, or diffuse calming essential oils like lavender and chamomile. Choose soft, breathable sheets and keep your space clutter-free. A relaxing environment signals to your mind and body that it’s time to wind down.

Check out these Ways to Relax Before Bedtime.

2. Unplug and Disconnect

Blue light from screens disrupts melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. About an hour before bed, swap your phone for a more mindful activity—like journaling, reading, or a skincare ritual. If you need background noise, try soft music or a guided meditation instead of endless scrolling.

Check out these tips for a screen-free evening.

3. Indulge in a Luxurious Skincare Ritual

Your nighttime skincare routine can be a meditative self-care practice. Use clean beauty products that nourish your skin and make you feel pampered. Double cleanse to remove the day’s grime, then apply a hydrating serum, a rich moisturizer, and a soothing lip balm. Bonus: A gua sha massage helps release tension and boosts circulation.

Check out these tips for the Perfect Nighttime Skincare Routine.

4. Reflect with Gratitude & Journaling

Journaling before bed helps clear your mind and cultivate a positive mindset. Try writing down three things you’re grateful for or setting an intention for the next day. If you prefer something more guided, affirmations like “I am worthy of rest and love” can be powerful in shifting your mindset.

Check out these 2o Journal Prompts to Clear Your Mind Before Bedtime.

5. Sip on a Sleep-Inducing Herbal Tea

A warm cup of chamomile, valerian root, or magnesium-infused tea can be a soothing ritual. Not only does it help you relax, but the act of slowing down to sip a warm drink is an act of mindfulness in itself.

Learn more about the Best Teas to Drink Before Bed for Better Sleep.

6. Gentle Movement or Meditation

A few minutes of stretching, restorative yoga, or deep breathing exercises can work wonders in releasing tension. If you struggle to quiet your mind, try a guided meditation or body scan to ease into a restful state.

Check out this 20 Minute Bedtime Yoga Practice.

7. Prioritize Rest with a Sleep-Friendly Environment

A cool, dark, and quiet room is key to high-quality sleep. Consider blackout curtains, a white noise machine, or a weighted blanket to enhance your comfort. Also, ensure your sleepwear is made from soft, breathable fabrics to support uninterrupted rest.

Check out these tips for How to Make a Sleep Friendly Environment.

8. Embrace a Loving Self-Talk Practice

Self-love isn’t just about actions—it’s also about how you speak to yourself. End your day with positive affirmations or a moment of self-compassion. Remind yourself that you did enough today, that you are enough, and that tomorrow is a fresh start.

Incorporating these self-love rituals into your bedtime routine isn’t about adding another checklist to your day—it’s about prioritizing yourself in a gentle, nurturing way. Try incorporating just one or two of these habits tonight and notice how they make you feel. After all, the way you end your day sets the tone for how you begin the next one.

For a loving self-talk practice, check out our Last Week’s Self-Affirmation.

Final Thoughts

Your bedtime routine is a reflection of how you care for yourself. By incorporating even a few of these self-love rituals, you create a space of peace and restoration that extends beyond the night. Small, intentional habits lead to lasting change—so start where you can, and enjoy the process of nurturing yourself. Prioritizing your well-being before bed ensures you wake up feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to embrace the day ahead.

Enjoyed this article? Next, check out our 10 Tips for Maintaining My Wellness Routine.

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FAQ: A Bedtime Routine for Self-Love

Here are some frequently asked questions about building a consistent bedtime routine to improve your wellbeing!

How long should my bedtime self-love routine be?

There’s no set length—it can be as short as 10 minutes or as long as an hour. The key is consistency and choosing rituals that genuinely help you relax and feel nurtured.

How can I condense this bedtime routine if I don't have much time?

Choose two or three core activities that bring you the most relaxation, such as a quick skincare routine, a few deep breaths, and a gratitude reflection. Prioritizing even a small self-love practice can have a big impact.

How do I maintain this bedtime routine with a busy schedule?

Focus on the essentials and keep it simple. Even five minutes of self-care—like a short meditation, skincare routine, or journaling—can make a difference. Consistency is more important than duration.

How do I make my bedroom feel more like a self-care sanctuary?

Keep it clean and clutter-free, use soft lighting, incorporate calming scents like lavender, and invest in high-quality sheets and sleepwear for a luxurious touch

What affirmations are good for self-love before bed?

Try affirmations like “I am worthy of rest,” “I release the stress of the day,” and “I love and accept myself as I am.” Repeating these can help shift your mindset to a more positive, self-loving space before sleep.