NEW YEAR 7-DAY FOCUS PROGRAM

Thursday's Focus

Read for at least 10 minutes before bed tonight

Reading before bed not only helps you relax but also improves your sleep quality. 

Switch off the screens and settle in with a good book for at least 10 minutes tonight. Whether it’s fiction or something inspirational, this little ritual is the perfect way to wind down. Reading helps reduce stress, improves sleep quality, and allows your mind to transition from the day’s busyness to rest.

Setting The Scene

Environment:

Set up a cosy spot with dim lighting, a blanket, and a cup of herbal tea.

Digital Alternatives:

Use apps like Kindle or Audible if you prefer e-books or audiobooks (just avoid backlit screens). This can also be a helpful way to find a book on demand if you haven't had a chance to go to the store or order a book online.

Explore The Library:

You may even like the wholesome idea of exploring the local library. They often have the new releases too.

Genre: 

I personally prefer fiction before bed (a cheesy romantic novel to be exact), as I find personal development/ self improvement books to motivate me too much. Before I know it I'm journalling a 5-page plan to transform my life and getting excited to action the plan instead of winding down to sleep. In saying that, I've shared some of my favourites from both genres below for you to choose from.

I also try to stay away from suspense, crime and anything that illicits fear and worry before bedtime. As you can probably guess, this is not the way to shift out of Fight-or-Flight and into Rest-and-Digest. (p.s. same goes with your choice of Netflix movie or show before bed on a regular night)

I'm currently reading:

Behind The Net - Stephanie Archer

Description: Romantic novel with a few spicy scenes.

Other Book Recommendations:

Fiction -

• Any fiction novel that does not set the nervous system into fear and worry (Fight-or-Flight)
• The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo - Taylor Jenkins Reid
• It Ends With Us - Colleen Hoover
• It Starts With Us (Sequel) - Colleen Hoover

Personal Development and Self-Improvement -

• The Mountain Is You - Brianna Wiest ***
• Big Magic - Elizabeth Gilbert ***
• The Power of Now - Eckhart Tolle (Especially if you are religious)
• Attached - Dr Amir Levine and Rachel Heller (Relationships & Dating)
• Good Vibes, Good Life - Vex King
• Make You Happen - Jordanna Levin
• Manifest - Roxie Nafousi

Reading Alternatives:

• Print out a short article from your favourite blog or a poem that inspires you (Just avoid backlit screens, so no reading it off your phone).
  
  
• Journaling: Write down reflections or gratitude instead of reading if it feels more calming.