As the nights grow longer and the temperatures drop, many of us find ourselves feeling a little more tired than usual. Winter has a way of coaxing us into hibernation mode, but with the right strategies, you can turn this season into a time of restorative, rejuvenating sleep. Here are our top tips for hacking your winter sleep routine and waking up refreshed, even on the darkest mornings.
1. Embrace the Darkness – But Not Too Much
Shorter days can make it tempting to crawl into bed at 6 pm, but it’s important to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Use blackout curtains or window film to block out artificial light at bedtime but ensure you’re exposed to natural light during the day to keep your circadian rhythm in check.
2. Create a Winter-Ready Sleep Sanctuary
Make your bedroom a cozy haven against the winter chill. Switch to warmer bedding, layer up with blankets, and keep the room slightly cool (between 16–18°C is ideal for sleep). Add a humidifier to counteract the dry winter air and help you breathe easier.
3. Optimise Your Evenings for Rest
Winter evenings are perfect for unwinding, so take advantage of the season to establish a calming bedtime routine. Dim the lights, turn off screens an hour before bed, and indulge in a relaxing activity like reading, journaling, or meditating. Incorporating soothing sounds like white noise or gentle rain can help signal your brain that it’s time to wind down.
4. Use LUMI’s Smart Features to Wake Up Gently
Waking up to a blaring alarm on a frosty winter morning is nobody’s idea of a good start. That’s where our LUMI white noise machine comes in! With our app-controlled features, you can schedule your wake-up to a warm orange light paired with calming bird songs or gentle ocean waves. This gradual wake-up method mimics a sunrise and helps your body wake up naturally, even if it’s still dark outside.
5. Stay Active During the Day
It’s easy to get into a sedentary rut during winter, but staying active is key to better sleep. Try a brisk walk, yoga, or even a dance session to keep your body moving and your sleep hormones balanced. Bonus: exercise can also help combat the winter blues!
6. Watch What (and When) You Eat
Winter comfort foods are a joy, but heavy, carb-rich meals right before bed can disrupt your sleep. Opt for a lighter evening meal and limit caffeine or alcohol intake, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. Instead, sip on a warm herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint to wind down.
7. Lean into Winter’s Natural Rhythms
Winter invites us to slow down, rest more, and recharge. Don’t fight it! Listen to your body’s cues and give yourself permission to enjoy a little extra rest. Think of it as a seasonal reset that prepares you for the brighter, busier months ahead.
