For women who spend all day working hard, working on themselves, or looking after their family, the evening presents a moment of peace from the hustle and bustle of the day. It is finally the moment when we can log off, turn down the noise and relax. For those with a routine, this is a sacred moment set aside to indulge in some much-needed self-love and care.   

Many fall into the mindset that a self-care night is only deserved after a hectic week, a stressful day, or when you are on holiday. Do not convince yourself that self-care is deserved. This idea causes your brain to believe that self-care is a reward and not something that you need to do to look after your mental and physical well-being. No matter how your day, week, or month turned out, a nighttime routine is a simple pleasure that you can personalise to suit your lifestyle.  

But, if you have yet to enjoy your nighttime rituals, here are a few ways you can feel like the main character and romanticise your evening.  

1. Ambiance
First things first, creating a nighttime ambiance is a great way to set the mood for the night and create a space that feels warm and soothing; dim the lights for all the calming vibes and let your body know that it's time to relax and unwind. Light scented candles or use essential oils such as lavender or chamomile to create a truly relaxing atmosphere.  

2. Relaxing Bath
We all love a karaoke session in the shower, but on days when you need to slow down and rest, try to enjoy a relaxing warm bath. A bath can soothe all the physical aches and pains of the day and ease mental stress. Light some candles, add bath oils, bubble baths, or bath bombs for an extra luxurious experience.  

3. Bodycare
Skincare is an important part of any self-care routine, but we tend to forget that our body needs just as much love and care as our face. Just like the skin on our face, our body faces external stressors and ageing. Pamper your body in lotions, oils, or moisturisers to keep your skin looking and feeling hydrated, smooth, and extra glowy. This ritual of looking after your skin can help improve the overall appearance and health of your skin whilst the practice encourages you to love and take care of the skin in your in.  

4. Luxurious Pjs
As much as we love our old t-shirts and baggy pjs, switching to a cute Pj set can make all the difference in how you feel about yourself before going to bed. Silk, cotton, or bamboo PJ sets, dresses, or nightgowns are the most luxurious choices because they look glamorous and feel comfortable. With that said, pyjamas do not need to cost a fortune. Whatever your pyjama style, material, or price point, you should feel your best when wearing them. This small act of dressing up, even for bed will help you to feel like the main character even in your sleep.  

5. Skincare
Some nights there’s a rush to wash the day away and get through the skincare routine. But try slowing down and taking your time when applying your skincare so you can fully indulge yourself in every step of your routine. Use your favourite products, face masks, and mists that leave your skin feeling clean and hydrated with a pre-bedtime glow. Throw on a cute headband and robe, play your favourite music or a podcast in the background, and turn this part of your night into your episode of Vogue Beauty Secrets.  

6. Do What You Love
The best way to enjoy your night routine and feel like the main character is to act like one! Watch your favourite movie or TV show because it makes you feel good, sing out loud to your childhood classics playlist, lose yourself in a book, or listen to a podcast that you enjoy. Whatever it is, remember it’s all about you and what makes you happy, so you enjoy this time with yourself without judgment or feeling guilty. 

7. Journaling
Towards the end of the night, no matter how tired we are, our minds can be jumbled with thoughts and feelings of the day. Writing things down before bed can help your mind rest and reflect on the good or bad happenings of the day. Not only is it a helpful way to let go of your thoughts and feelings but it’s a great way to practice gratitude and positive self-talk. Journaling is a healthy way to practice letting go, manage emotions, and show yourself kindness at the end of the day.  

8. “Sleepy Girl Mocktail”  
We can’t forget about our beauty sleep, so a pre-sleep mocktail might be what you need for a full night's rest and a refreshing morning. Drinks such as chamomile tea and a cocktail of ingredients such as cherry juice and magnesium can help you drift off to sleep, improve sleep quality, and help you feel your best in the morning.    

A nighttime routine is personal, so whatever your routine consists of and however long it takes, just make sure you feel good whilst doing it. Getting a little dressed up, drinking from a fancy glass, wearing a face mask, lathering on your favourite lotions and potions, or watching your favourite show are ways to remind yourself that no matter what happened that day, you are still THAT GIRL.