The Sleep Benefits of Gratitude: How Reflecting on the Year Can Help You Sleep Better
Let’s talk about something that’s both ancient wisdom and cutting-edge science: gratitude.
I know, it might sound a little soft. But stick with me here. There’s real power in pausing to appreciate the good stuff in your life.
And it turns out, gratitude isn’t just a feel-good exercise. It can also have a profound impact on your sleep.
The Gratitude-Sleep Connection
Here’s the science: When you focus on the positive—whether it’s big wins or tiny moments of joy—you reduce stress and anxiety.
And stress and anxiety are the archenemies of sleep.
Gratitude shifts your focus away from racing thoughts, worries, and to-do lists. It’s like rewiring your brain to say, “Hey, it’s okay to rest now.”
Studies have shown that people who practice gratitude before bed fall asleep faster, sleep longer, and wake up feeling more refreshed.
Why? Because gratitude promotes relaxation and activates your parasympathetic nervous system—the one that helps you wind down.
Reflecting on the Year
Now’s the perfect time to reflect.
Take a moment to look back at the past year.
Sure, not everything went according to plan.
But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find those golden moments.
Maybe it’s the laugh you shared with a friend.
The project you finally finished.
Or just the fact that you made it through a tough day.
Write these down.
Yes, actually write them down.
The act of jotting them in a journal (or even on your phone) makes a difference.
Turn Gratitude Into a Sleep Ritual
Here’s how to incorporate gratitude into your bedtime routine:
- Let It Linger
Spend a few minutes savoring those thoughts. Let them settle in as you prepare for sleep. - List 3 Good Things
Before you turn out the lights, think of three things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be monumental—small wins count. - Feel It
Don’t just think about it; feel it. Relive the joy, pride, or comfort those moments brought you.
Gratitude + Sleep Remedy
And if you want to supercharge your wind-down routine, pair your gratitude practice with Sleep Remedy.
While gratitude clears the mental clutter, Sleep Remedy helps your body get into the sleep zone by supporting the natural hormones and nutrients your brain needs to shut down for the night.
Together, they’re like a one-two punch for better sleep.
So tonight, take a moment to reflect.
Feel the gratitude.
And let your body and mind rest deeply.
You deserve it.
— Kirk Parsley, M.D.
Sleep Remedy
CAPSULES
Doc Parsley’s Sleep Remedy is a natural sleep aid, formulated with a blend of calming nutrients to help you fall asleep faster and improve your sleep quality. Doctor-developed and recommended, it’s non-habit forming and safe for daily use.