Let’s be honest.
By the time you’ve wrapped up work, whipped up dinner, helped with homework, and made it through bedtime, you’re done.
And not just “tired” done—more like “I can’t even think straight, don’t talk to me, I just want quiet” kind of done.
If that’s you most nights, you’re not alone.
And the last thing you need is another rigid routine that feels like a chore.
But hear me out—what if I told you that a simple, calming evening wind-down routine could help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed…without taking forever?
That’s exactly what I’m sharing in this episode.
“It’s not about doing more. It’s about ending the day with more intention so you can wake up ready for the next.”
Let’s talk about how to create a wind-down routine that actually works for your life.
Why Your Evening Routine Matters More Than You Think
You’ve probably seen a million tips for morning routines, but the real secret to a better morning?
It starts the night before.
- Evening is when you prep your brain (and body) to wind down.
- It helps you clear stress and close out the day—mentally and physically.
- A solid evening routine leads to a smoother, calmer morning.
So if your mornings feel rushed and chaotic, it might be time to look at what’s happening the night before.
Why Evenings Feel So Hard (And How to Work Around It)
If your evenings feel like a total mess, here’s why:
- You’re mentally fried. After decision-making all day, your brain is done.
- The kids won’t go to bed. Bedtime becomes a full-blown production.
- You feel behind. Dishes, laundry, emails… all staring at you.
- You escape into scrolling or shows. Totally normal, but not exactly restorative.
- You don’t know what counts as “winding down.” So you skip it altogether.
“It can feel like there’s no end in sight. But I promise, even a short routine can give you that sense of closure you’re looking for.”
You don’t need perfection. You just need a plan that fits where you are right now.
What Makes a Good Wind-Down Routine?
Here’s what to keep in mind when building yours:
1. Make It Predictable—but Flexible
- Your routine should act like a signal to your brain: It’s time to slow down.
- Keep the same general flow, but let it flex depending on how your day went.
- Think of it as a rhythm, not a rigid checklist.
2. Keep It Short and Sweet
- 10 minutes is plenty.
- Even 5 minutes counts.
- If you have 30? That’s a bonus.
- The goal is low effort, high impact—not another item on your to-do list.
3. Do Something Calming for Your Body
- Think: warm shower, gentle stretches, skincare, or herbal tea.
- These activities help your nervous system switch into rest mode.
4. Clear Your Mind
- Brain dump on paper
- Write your to-do list for tomorrow
- Journal for a few minutes
“It helps close the tabs in my brain so I can actually fall asleep.”
5. Prep One Thing for Tomorrow
- Lay out clothes
- Pack lunches
- Set up the coffee pot
These tiny steps seriously reduce morning stress.
6. Add One Thing Just for You
- Read a book
- Listen to music
- Color (yes, adults can enjoy this too)
This is your time. Even 3-5 minutes can help you reconnect with you.
Sample 15–30 Minute Wind-Down Routine
Here’s what this might look like:
- Tidy one or two “hot spots” in the house
- Prep for tomorrow – lay out clothes, prep lunches, jot down a to-do list
- Screen-free wind down – read, journal, skincare
- Do one thing just for you
“This routine should feel like a gift—not another task on your list.”
You can adjust the timing and steps depending on your day. This is meant to help you, not box you in.
Tips for Different Mom Seasons
No matter your season of motherhood, your routine can work for you.
Moms of Toddlers
- Sync your routine with your child’s bedtime.
- Use their wind-down as a cue for your own.
- Tag team with your partner if possible for even 10 minutes of quiet time.
Moms of School-Age Kids
- Encourage your kids to build their own routine.
- Teach them to prep their lunches or lay out clothes.
- This builds their independence—and frees up your time.
Moms of Teens
- Your kids might stay up later than you (been there!).
- Set boundaries: “After 9, it’s Mom’s quiet time.”
- Make your routine non-negotiable, even if they’re still up.
Moms Who Work Shifts or Unpredictable Schedules
- Your evening might not be at night—that’s okay!
- Focus on consistent cues, not the clock.
- Use blackout curtains, calming rituals, or white noise to help your body know it’s time to rest.
Let Go of Perfect
If your routine changes from day to day or week to week, that’s not failure—it’s life.
- Routines ebb and flow as your family grows.
- Five minutes of calm still counts.
- Start small. Build up. Adjust as needed.
“What matters is consistency, not perfection.”
And remember—this routine isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about creating a smoother end to your day and a calmer start to the next.
You deserve that.
LISTEN: APPLE PODCASTS | SPOTIFY | STITCHER
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcast
Have you subscribed to the Real Happy Mom podcast? If not, I’m encouraging you to do it today.
I don’t want you to miss any upcoming episodes. I plan to add some bonus episodes that you won’t find on this website, and if you’re not subscribed, you might miss out on those. Click here to subscribe on Apple Podcast!
I would be so happy and grateful if you left me a review on Apple Podcast too. Reviews help Apple Podcast to know that this is a podcast for other moms so that other moms can find this podcast. Plus, it makes my day to read the reviews.
Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” and let me know your favorite part of the podcast. I really appreciate any help you can provide.
Don’t have Apple Podcast? You can subscribe to the podcast Anchor, Spotify, Breaker, Castbox, Overcast, RadioPublic, and Stitcher.
