Sacred Bedtime Routine

Wrestling with Restless Thoughts

Some nights, I head to bed with the intention to fall asleep, only to find that my mind has its own agenda. Instead of drifting peacefully into rest, my thoughts begin to construct an endless mental checklist. Everything imaginable comes up—tasks I need to complete, and both the small and significant things that have perplexed me throughout the day.

At times, it feels as though I’m locked in a battle with myself, even though what I truly crave is a night of uninterrupted sleep. So, as of today, my intention when addressing my sleep issues is learning to cooperate with what I refer to as my “monkey mind” rather than resisting it. I am ready to move beyond the anxiety of trying to fall asleep and the struggle to stay asleep, choosing instead a sense of acceptance and harmony with my own thoughts.

How will I do that, you ask?

I’ve decided that for me the most important thing is to prioritize my comfort and create a sacred bedtime ritual. For me that looks like setting aside 30 minutes to journal my busy thoughts and/or listen to a mediation, as I get ready for bed. In those 30 minutes, I will visualize releasing worries of the day and focus on gratitude.

Here’s a nighttime affirmation for a good night’s rest: “As I sleep, I am surrounded by angels; my mind remains calm and at peace, while gratitude illuminates and comforts me throughout the night.”

Namaste, Cathleen L. Balfour