I recently realized the power of having a consistent night routine in college, especially during online classes.
The CDC reports that a third of US adults get less than seven hours of sleep per night.
Getting enough sleep is essential for overall good health and improved focus during the day.
While making time for rest might not sound too important, it should be at the top of our priority list.
This post is all about my college night routine for online classes.
1. Turn off the tech
I talk about this a lot, but only because it’s insanely important.
We live in a world where we’re constantly exposed to opinions and thoughts of other people, even when we’re not in the headspace to hear it.
The light from our devices also interferes with the friendly hormone melatonin, which is our body’s gift to us so we can rest.
Health experts suggest turning off the tech at least two hours before bed.
2. Plan for the next day
I prefer to plan my day the night before so I know exactly what I need to do when I wake up the next morning.
Having a to-do list of tasks and a priority list for the next day is crucial.
Especially when it comes to assignments and deadlines, knowing exactly what you need to study and get done for school the next day will help you be mentally prepared.
I also like to create a time-blocking schedule for myself, depending on the day and the priorities I have that day.
Related: The Ultimate College Morning Routine in Quarantine
3. Have a consistent bedtime
This one is probably the hardest, but also super important.
Having a consistent bedtime will allow you to fall asleep faster and feel rested the next day.
Unless you absolutely have to, I’d skip the late-night study session and instead go to bed early, so I can wake up early and focus on studying.
If it’s too hard to follow the exact bedtime every day, try setting a time that you won’t stay awake past.
For example, even if I can’t fall asleep by 10 pm every night, I do my best to be asleep by midnight at the latest.
4. Create a calming environment
This is the best part of my evening routine.
As soon as the sun sets, I switch on my “hygge” mode.
I shut the blinds, light a candle, put on my throw blanket and curl up with a book or a show, or just work on my blog.
The point is to switch out of student mode and give yourself the time to wind down and relax.
I also use this time to spend time with my family. We have a family tradition of watching Masterchef every night during dinner, and I look forward to it all day.
Even if I have a hard day, I know that I have created a window of time for myself to relax at night and not worry about the stresses of school or life.
Here are some ideas for winding down:
- Read a book
- Watch a movie
- Spend time with loved ones
- Write in your journal
- Skincare
- A hot shower
Related: 16 Restorative Ways to Spend Time Alone
5. Do something you love
For me, the nighttime brings out my creative side.
I love to write and work on my blog at night.
I make a cup of tea and just relax while I let myself work on something I’m passionate about.
Like this blog.
It’s important to hold on to the things you love because it’s easy to get lost in the school stress and forget to have fun.
I wouldn’t get too worked up about this, so try not to stay up all night working on something and getting carried away.
But just do something for you.
There you have it, 5 habits to integrate into your night routine in college!
Having a set time to treat yourself, reflect, and plan is incredibly rewarding.
What’s your favorite self-care activity to include in your college night routine? Please share in the comments below so I can try it as well!