You might know many things to do in the morning to start your day, but some habits are better if done at night. Here are six nighttime activities that doctors recommend for your health.

Taking a Warm Shower or Bath Before Bed Helps You Sleep

Doctors say taking a warm shower or bath about 1 to 2 hours before bedtime can help you sleep better. The Sleep specialist explains that warm water raises your body temperature a little, and when it cools down afterward, your body knows it’s time to sleep. This can help you get deeper, better sleep, which is important for your health.

Using Antiperspirant at Night Works Better

Applying antiperspirant at night rather than in the morning makes it more effective. Doctors explain that at night, your sweat glands aren’t very active. This lets the antiperspirant get into your skin and work better, blocking sweat for the next day. This way, you sweat less and stay fresher during the day.

Doing Gentle Stretches Before Bed Helps You Relax

Stretching isn’t just good in the morning; it’s also great before bed. HSS physical therapists say gentle stretches at night help your muscles relax, lower stress, and improve blood flow. This helps you feel calm and relaxed, making it easier to fall asleep quickly and sleep well.

Meditating at Night Can Improve Your Sleep

Many people meditate in the morning, but meditation at night can be very helpful, too. Doctors say just 10 to 15 minutes of meditation before bed helps calm your mind, reduce stress, and improve sleep. Mindfulness meditation, especially, helps quiet your thoughts so you can sleep better.

Planning Your Next Day Before Bed Lowers Stress

Doctors suggest planning your tasks for tomorrow before going to bed instead of rushing in the morning. Doing this helps clear your mind and reduce worry about unfinished tasks. Making a simple list at night helps lower stress and makes you feel more organized and productive the next day.

Eating a Small Protein Snack Before Bed

Eating late at night might sound unhealthy, but a small snack high in protein before bedtime is actually good for your muscles and sleep. Doctors recommend snacks like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or nuts about an hour before bed. These foods provide protein that helps your muscles heal and grow while you sleep. WebMD also says a snack like this keeps your blood sugar stable, so you won’t wake up hungry.

The Takeaway

Doing these activities at night instead of in the morning can greatly help your health. Better sleep, less stress, improved muscle health, and increased productivity are just a few benefits you’ll see from making these nighttime habits.