Your Holiday Sleep Survival Guide

The busyness of the holiday season is almost here, and we all know how the late nights, big meals, and extra stress can throw your sleep completely off. Chronic poor sleep can disrupt hormones, immunity, digestion, and even mood. That's why getting quality restorative sleep is essential for your health!

Like we do for our kids, we benefit when we create a bedtime routine. Our brains learn what we train them to do, good or bad, so using good habits can help you get deep, restorative sleep.

We do not mess around in the Pearce household with our sleep! Here’s my personal sleep hygiene routine, so that you can take what works for you and create your own:

• Stay in a similar bedtime/wake time rhythm – Consistency trains your brain for better rest.
• Stop eating 2-4 hours before bed – Give your body time to digest.
• Very dark room – I call mine my “sleep cave.”
• Cool temperatures – Aim for 65–70°F for optimal rest.
• Brain dump – Journal your thoughts, big or small. Don’t solve anything—just get it out.
• Create an association – I use the same lotion every night to signal it’s time to sleep.
• Play a calming sound – Apps like Calm, Headspace, or binaural tracks help guide your brain into delta waves for deep sleep.

Extra Holiday Sleep Boosters:

• Get natural light – Early morning and late afternoon light keeps your circadian rhythm on track.
• Move during the day – Even a brisk walk helps your body feel naturally tired at night.