With my almost-1-year-old still not sleeping through the night, it’s safe to say that this year wasn’t the best in terms of good sleep. At least not the first few months of parenthood, which is obviously to be expected. Once I realized that it might be awhile before Leo would sleep for overnight stretches, I made it a priority to do what was in my control to sleep better. So alas, my updated tips for getting good sleep besides my usual hot shower and some beauty self care…

Amazing bedding

I’ve always been picky about my mattress, but not so much my bedding, which I came to realize earlier this year. While our sheets were nice, we were sleeping with somewhat of an outused comforter. Big mistake, huge. So, I started researching and this is where our new Buffy comforter comes in.

Buffy uses gentle eucalyptus fabric that’s made from 100% recycled water bottles, which is what originally drew me to this plant-based and Mother Earth-friendly brand. Then I noticed the 13K+ reviews of people claiming it was breathable year round, “the fluffiest comforter ever,” and basically all things that sounded magical to this tired mama. It’s also hypoallergenic which is always important to my husband and I in bedding (and our household items as much as possible).

After receiving the comforter, I swear my sleep improved in one night, and I realized what I had been missing. I can’t recommend investing in bedding that you love and trying Buffy if you don’t know where to start. (P.S. The company offers a 30-day complimentary trial with free returns if you don’t love it as much as I did…but you will)

Setting an alarm

Once Leo goes down, it’s tempting to stay up late to feel like I’m having some alone time or time with my husband. But honestly, most nights, getting a good night’s sleep weighs more heavily on my happiness. Now, I set an alarm for 8:30 pm which reminds me to start my nighttime skincare routine and get into bed. I’ve looked for other pockets of the day to get in me time and my husband and I have been more focused on weekend dates to connect – all while sleeping more. So far, so good!

Lavender oils

I liiiive for my essential oil diffuser, which I fill with lavender and run before bed each night. I turn it on when my alarm goes off and it sets the mood for relaxation and sleep. I’ll even dab a little oil onto my temples or wrists if I’m especially wound up. Or I’ll drop a few drops on my body brush if I’m showering at night. Heaven.

No tech

This is a work in progress, but I’m trying to log off of social media and the TV once my alarm goes off. It plays a major role in how fast I’m able to fall asleep, and I’m avoiding the Instagram and Netflix rabbit holes.

Meditation

I’ve been open about my struggles with meditation since having Leo, but I’m focusing on getting in at least 10 minutes a day. Even though it’s not usually right before bed, I find that the practice plays a holistic role in how well I’m sleeping. Likely because it’s retraining my brain to relax and unwind throughout the day.

**Thank you to Buffy for sponsoring this post, all opinions are my own