Unsurprisingly, rest is very important to me. But like most things, it took time and a lot of trial and error to figure out what actually works for me. One concept that I found especially helpful in structuring my wind-down rituals is something I learned from Sahil Bloom: the A, B, C routine (if you don't subscribe to his newsletter I would highly recommend it). It’s a framework that allows for both structure and flexibility in how I approach goals and routines, and it's been incredibly liberating. Here’s how it works.
My 'A' Routine: An Hour of Intentional Relaxation
On my best days, my 'A' routine is extensive and lasts about an hour. It’s a complete wind-down ritual that includes several intentional practices to help me transition into rest. This is what it typically looks like:
Turning on my wind-down playlist – Music plays such a crucial role in setting the mood for me. I’ve curated a playlist that makes me happy and instantly signals to my brain that it’s time to relax. Check it out here: Serena's wind down playlist
Warm bath - I am such a bath person and this is my favourite time of the day. I use this time to play games, scroll social media, etc.
Get into my RANI Lounge pajamas - Obviously
Putting my phone away for the night - I try to avoid using my phone for at least an hour before bed so try to set it to sleep mode as early as possible
Stretching – Gentle stretches are my way of releasing any physical tension that’s built up throughout the day. It’s amazing how much a few minutes of this can reset my body.
Self-massage using my Theragun – I love using this tool to work out any knots or tightness, especially if I've done an intense workout that day - it definitely helps with potential next day soreness
Journaling – Getting my thoughts down on paper allows me to clear mental clutter. I don’t overthink it; sometimes it’s a gratitude list, sometimes it's visualization, and other times it's just a brain dump.
Reading – I always have a book on my nightstand. It’s a great way to slow down and ease into a more restful state. I generally try to make this something light and fun so I go to sleep happy and relaxed
Breathwork – I finish the routine by turning all the lights off and focusing on some intentional deep breathing. It helps ground me and prepare to sleep.
My 'A' routine is what I aim for when I have the time and space, and it feels amazing. But honestly: life doesn’t always allow for an hour of wind-down every single night. Sometimes I don't have the time, and sometime's I just don't feel like it.
My 'C' Routine: The Power of Simplicity
On nights when I just don’t have the energy, time, or motivation to go through my full 'A 'routine, my 'C' routine comes in. It’s as simple as getting into my pajamas and taking five deep breaths before I fall asleep. That’s it. No playlist, no stretching, no reading. Just five deep breaths to calm my nervous system (sometimes it's after a tiktok binge, not that I recommend this before bed - but lets be real, it happens), and then off to sleep.
What I’ve started to realize is that my 'C' routine is just as valid and effective in its own way. Even on the busiest or most stressful days, those few breaths are a moment of intentionality and care for myself. It may not be as extensive, but it’s still impactful.
My 'B' Routine: A Middle Ground
On most days, my routine falls somewhere in between, what I like to call my 'B' routine. It’s a blend of practices that takes less time than the 'A' routine but still feels intentional. Maybe I’ll just do some stretching, put on my playlist, and read for a few minutes. Or maybe I’ll take a bath, journal, and do a bit of breathwork. The point is, it’s flexible, and I don’t hold myself to rigid expectations.
Embracing Flexibility in Rest
What I’ve learned from this A, B, C approach is that our wind-down rituals don’t have to be perfect or the same every night. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes we don’t have the time or energy for an hour-long routine. And that’s perfectly fine. The key is to have options that work for you on any given day. Some nights, it’s a full routine, and other nights, it’s just those five breaths.
I highly recommend having rituals, but the goal is to have ones that allow you to shift into a state of rest, whatever that looks like for you. It doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. In fact, sometimes the simplest practices can be the most effective.
So, whether you have time for an 'A' routine or just a quick 'C', what matters is that you’re prioritizing rest and giving yourself the permission to do what works for you in the moment. Rest isn’t about perfection—it’s about finding what helps you wind down, no matter how small the effort.
Want some help putting together your own routine? I'd love to help! DM us on instagram or email me at serena@ranilounge.com and I'd be happy to chat and help you discover what works for you.
Sleep well!
Serena