Posted by How to on Monday, June 9, 2014
When I walk in the door after a day at work I find it helpful to have a coming-home routine. There are a few steps I take to transition from the big wide world into my own little cosy haven.
This demarcates my work day and home time and starts the winding down process for bedtime even though that won�t be for hours. I find a simple routine helpful because I want to simultaneously wind down and relax so I will sleep well, but also because I want to have the energy to cook a delicious and nutritious dinner and do any small jobs I have planned. Plus, in the morning I don�t have to deal with yesterday�s �stuff�. I�m all ready to go.
Here is my evening routine:
- Put away my bags (handbag and tote) � there has to be a spot to put them, otherwise they are dumped on the floor or table or chair, only to have to be moved when that space is needed. I have a permanent spot where they reside in the main living area that is handy but not in the way. It is very relaxing to have spaces to put things.
- Put away any groceries bought.
- Change into my relaxing home/loungewear clothes, remove all jewellery except for earrings, do a few stretches on my bedroom floor.
- Prepare and start dinner.
- Have a sparkling water or another type of drink whilst reading a book or magazine while dinner is cooking.
- Most of the time I will not bring my laptop out once I get home, and I definitely find that more relaxing. If I am at home for the day I will shut it off and put away around 6pm and not get it out again until the next day. This makes a huge difference in the time I go to bed and how well I sleep. Of course Thirty Chic Days is not helping but I hope to become more organised and post before dinner.
- After we�ve had dinner it�s kitchen cleanup and then a relaxing herbal tea (our current favourite is actually called Relaxing Tea) and either finishing off a tv programme or read a book while I drink my tea.
- I like to go up to our bedroom with plenty of time to spare before lights out at 10pm to potter around and tidy up, see what I might like to wear tomorrow, brush and floss, wash my face and put moisturiser on my face, d�colletage, neck, hands, feet, knees, elbows. There aren�t many places left I know but I only do my arms and legs in the morning. All the while I have some soothing spa-like music playing softly. I love doing this.
- Then it�s my favourite time � reading in bed. Ahhhh. Beautiful.
Bonne nuit!