After all the work and play is done, nighttime is about relaxation and self care. This is the time to block out all of the outside noise and say, “I’ll deal with it tomorrow.” And while eight hours of blissful sleep may not always be easy to come by, it’s important to use this time to look after yourself as much as possible. This year has already had more twists and turns than any of us expected and staying mentally and physically healthy begins with sleeping well. And if you can use this time to enjoy a bit of pampering, well that’s even better.
My nighttime routine is sacred. As I’ve gotten older and getting a good night’s sleep has gotten trickier, I’ve had to find new ways to help me wind down more easily and get the most out of those precious hours of rest. This week’s picks will do just that, with that little something extra you’ve come to expect in this space.
Sweet dreams.
1. Algenist Genius Liquid Collagen Lip (£36)
I can’t go to bed without something on my lips or they will feel like sandpaper in the morning. While there are balms aplenty, this treatment from Algenist offers a bit more. Made with active plant collagen, microalgae oil and alguronic acid, it glides on easily without feeling sticky or greasy, smoothing away fine lines and adding some volume. Now, you could use this during the daytime to help plump up your pout, but you’re likely to remove most of it pretty quickly by eating or smooching. Leaving it on all night long gives the good stuff plenty of time to absorb.
2. Bown of London Dressing Gowns (£69.95 and up)
Whether you call it a robe or a dressing gown, wrapping yourself in something soft after a shower or bath is heavenly. During the warmer months, I like something lighter, but when it’s chilly out, a big, fluffy robe is just the ticket. Bown of London makes a range of luxury dressing gowns for both men and women from Egyptian cotton in bold patterns with complimentary personalization. They remind me of Missoni textiles, at a much friendlier price point. Wear one while you get ready for bed at night and don’t be embarrassed to don it when answering the door for deliveries in the morning.
3. NEOM Perfect Night's Sleep Pillow Mist (£20)
Aromatherapy can work wonders after a long day. There are 14 all-natural essential oils in this mist from NEOM Organics (previously featured here) including jasmine, lavender and sweet basil, an elegant blend to lull you into dreamland. I got a sample of this mist in a beauty gift with purchase and I’ve used it at home and taken it to every hotel I’ve stayed in since. I like to mist it along the top edge of my pillow so it’s not right under my nose. Will it make you completely forget about tomorrow’s to-do list? No. But it may help you stop mentally adding to it just long enough to fall asleep.
Something to think about …
If you’re looking for a new read, I highly recommend this memoir by former child actress Sarah Polley. The accomplished screenwriter and activist shares some of her most painful memories of growing up too fast in the public eye and how they taught her to better advocate for herself and others.
Last week on MIDDI …