Intuitive Intentional Essentials for Your Bedside Table
The objects we surround ourselves with release energy that affects us, and depending on how meaningful they are, they influence how we feel. The bedroom is a reflection of the most intimate part of you. It is where you sleep, dream, desire, and experience love. It is a place where you are highly physical and emotional. Your bedside table is one of the first things you see in the morning, and one of the last things you will see before falling asleep so you want to make sure it is tidy and intentional.
A nightstand drawer can become a catchall for random odds and ends. Prevent your nightstand drawer from becoming a junk drawer or a black hole where things disappear with the following tips. I was definitely one of those people.
Crystals
I love keeping crystals by my bed, aesthetically and energetically but you have to be careful when choosing, as some crystals can cause restlessness and don’t aid in sleep. My two favorites are rose quartz, and shungite. Rose quartz crystal removes toxic emotions and blockages and helps spread compassion, peace, and serenity in a home. Shungite is an extremely powerful stone that has the ability to shield you from EMF emissions. I find that these two crystals work so well together and I go to sleep feeling protected
Dream Journal, Book, and Pen
Keeping a journal and pen next to your bed is the perfect way to remind yourself to record your dreams. Journaling is a way for me to release or try to reason with myself before bed. I put it all down in my journal and release it from my mind. It’s best to be off of electronics at least 3o minutes before you go to sleep so keep a good book close.
Light
Light is very important, as it really sets the mood for being able to have great sleep. Changing your bedroom light bulbs with amber light bulbs has been shown to help you fall asleep faster and preserves your body’s natural levels of melatonin.
Blue blockers
Blue blocking glasses are a great stable in my bedside drawer. When I’m reading, or using anything emitting blue light I love to use blue-light-blocking glasses to ensure I don’t disrupt my circadian rhythm. Blue light-blocking glasses can help reduce eye strain. Blue light can make it difficult to focus on the screen, making your eyes strain to concentrate.
Night Supplements and Water
Keeping your supplements you take at night on your bedside table will make you more inclined to take them. I used to keep them all in my kitchen but some days I would forget to take them when I was already cozy and tucked into bed, so I would just skip a night. When you keep them next to your bed it is much more convenient and you’ll more than likely remember to take them.
Incense or essential oil
I am all about setting the mood. To ensure a good night’s sleep I love having my diffuser by my bed with my Serenity DoTerra oil. The gentle smells and soothing effects are a great way to unwind in the evenings. Diffusing essential oils can be used on their own or paired with another activity to help you relax. For example, diffuse the oils while doing another calming activity, such as soaking in the bath, completing an easy yoga routine, or meditating for a few minutes. Look for scents that will help you calm down instead of energizing you. If you are more of a candle person, make sure you choose a candle that is phthalate-free and made of 100% natural wax.
Lip balm and Body Butter
One of my favorite nighttime rituals is applying my favorite body butter and balm before slipping into my sheets.
TIP: If you can’t fit everything on your nightstand, opt for a hanging caddy that slips between your mattress and box spring (some even attach to the side of your nightstand). It’s a handy spot for slipping in your remote, glasses, and earbuds as you nod off to sleep.