Rest Before the Festivities: Why November is the Month to Catch Up on Sleep

As the days grow shorter and our calendars begin to fill with holiday plans, parties, and festive chaos, November offers us a beautiful lull—an invitation to pause, breathe, and indulge in a little extra rest before December sweeps us off our feet. 
 
For those of us in the business of sleep, November feels like the calm before the storm, and it’s the perfect time to give a nod to quality rest. After all, nothing fuels the holiday spirit like a well-rested mind and body. So, let’s talk about how November can become your month of rejuvenation and how a few simple tweaks can set you up for your best rest yet. 
 

Embrace the Cosy Season 

 
November gives us every excuse to snuggle up and prioritise comfort. While everyone else is fixated on fireworks and festivities, this is your moment to bask in pure, uninterrupted relaxation. We’re talking big blankets, low lighting, and perhaps a luxurious new mattress topper to take that bed of yours to a whole new level of cosiness. 
 

Tips for Unwinding and Prepping for Restful Nights 

 
It’s not always easy to wind down—especially as we start eyeing our holiday to-do lists—but setting a few simple bedtime habits can make a world of difference. Here are some practical (and wonderfully lazy) ways to embrace November as your sleep sanctuary: 
 

1. Set a Consistent Bedtime

The trick to deep, restorative sleep is consistency. Try to get to bed at roughly the same time each night, and let your body sink into the rhythm. It’s easy to think that sleep is just a nighttime thing, but a regular schedule actually gives your body time to fully relax and makes each night’s sleep a bit deeper. 

 

2. Create a Calming Pre-Bed Routine

Whether it’s a cup of chamomile tea, a few pages of a good book, or a relaxing playlist, build a routine that signals to your brain it’s time to wind down. Leave any last-minute holiday planning for the daytime (trust us on this one!), and give yourself at least 30 minutes to simply relax before bed. 

 

3. Upgrade Your Sleep Space

A cosy bedroom setup can make all the difference in the world. Adding a quality mattress topper isn’t just about extra comfort; it’s about creating a space that supports your best rest. November is prime time for a few little bed upgrades—a topper for that extra cushy feel, fresh bedding to trap warmth, and maybe even a plush throw or two. 

 

4. Limit the Late-Night Screen Time

We get it, the lure of holiday online shopping can be strong! But bright screens right before bed aren’t doing your sleep any favours. Try to wrap up screen time at least an hour before you drift off to keep your mind from buzzing with late-night excitement. 

 

5. Practice a Little Gratitude

November’s quieter, more reflective vibe makes it a great time to cultivate some gratitude. Take a few moments each night to jot down three things you’re grateful for—whether it’s a fantastic day at work, a delicious meal, or just the warmth of your bed. This small habit doesn’t just improve your mood; studies show it can actually help you sleep better, too! 
 

A Final Word on Resting Before the Holiday Rush 

 
November might not come with the same glittering excitement as December, but that’s what makes it the perfect time to invest in quality rest. When you’re feeling refreshed and recharged, you can dive into the holiday season with all the enthusiasm (and patience) that festive gatherings demand. And if that takes a little extra cushioning and a bedtime cup of tea, well, all the better! 
 
So this November, let’s prioritise rest. After all, what better way to prep for the coming holiday bustle than with a month dedicated to real, quality sleep? Your future self (and possibly your holiday guests) will thank you!