Your bedside table is not just a place to rest your alarm clock and phone. It’s a personal space that can impact your well-being and set the tone for the day ahead. By curating this space thoughtfully, you can create a nightly routine that promotes relaxation, health, and happiness.
Here are 10 important things to keep by your bedside every night, with a focus on the surprising health benefits of including lemon slices.
1. Water Carafe and Glass
Hydration is key, even during the night. Keeping a water carafe and glass by your bedside ensures that you can easily quench your thirst if you wake up parched. Staying hydrated aids digestion, maintains healthy skin, and supports cognitive function.
2. Reading Material
A good book or magazine can be a soothing way to wind down before sleep. Reading can help you relax, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. Just make sure the content isn’t too stimulating.
3. Notepad and Pen
Thoughts tend to race when we’re trying to fall asleep. Having a notepad and pen nearby allows you to jot down any ideas, worries, or to-do lists, helping clear your mind and making it easier to drift off.
4. Lemon Slices
Lemons might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about bedside essentials, but they offer remarkable health benefits. Placing a small plate of lemon slices on your bedside table can have a positive impact on your well-being. Lemons are a rich source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds that can:
Aid Digestion: Drinking warm lemon water in the morning can stimulate digestion and help flush out toxins from your body.
Boost Immunity: The vitamin C in lemons supports your immune system, helping you stay healthy and ward off illnesses.
Improve Skin Health: The antioxidants in lemons promote healthier skin by combating free radicals and supporting collagen production.
Alkalize Your Body: Despite their acidic taste, lemons have an alkalizing effect on your body’s pH levels, which can help balance acidity and reduce inflammation.
5. Essential Oils
Aromatherapy can do wonders for relaxation and sleep. Keep a small bottle of your favorite calming essential oil, such as lavender or chamomile, on your bedside table. A few drops on your pillow or a diffuser can create a serene atmosphere that promotes restful sleep.
6. Hand Lotion
A good hand lotion can provide a soothing ritual before bed. Massaging your hands with a moisturizing lotion not only hydrates your skin but also relaxes your muscles and calms your mind.
7. Sleep Mask
Blocking out light is crucial for a restful night’s sleep. A comfortable sleep mask can help create a dark environment, even if your bedroom isn’t completely free of light.
8. Charging Station
While minimizing screen time before bed is recommended, having a designated charging station for your devices keeps your space organized and prevents the temptation of scrolling through your phone.
9. Medications or Supplements
If you take any medications or supplements before sleep, having them within arm’s reach ensures you won’t forget to take them.
10. Indoor Plants
A small potted plant on your bedside table can bring a touch of nature into your bedroom. Some indoor plants, like lavender or aloe vera, can even contribute to better air quality and a more calming environment.