Reading - Read magazines or other light material, look through catalogs, or read your kids’ books (these are often very comforting and positive in their messages).
Stretching - Do some stretches to relax your muscles. These stretches should be light and relaxing. Don’t try to overstretch or do any exercising.
Laundry - Take some time to catch up on laundry by folding or putting away clothes.
Sit and Relax - Find somewhere calm and relaxing. Make sure there are not any bright lights or something else that might cause you to become more alert.
Get Organized - Go through and organize the junk drawer, old mail, or closet. Something simple that could save you time later.
Meditate - Take some time to meditate. This is a perfect time to get in tune with yourself.
Prepare Meals - Whether you still brown bag it or have a lunch container, use this time to make your lunch for the following day.
Listen to Music - It should be music that slows and relaxes the mind. Soft music with slow rhythms is ideal.
Make a to-do-list - Take this opportunity to make a grocery, shopping, or chore list for the week.
Play a Game - If you like to play cards, play solitaire online or with cards at home. Just make sure you aren’t competitive about it.
Knit or Quilt - If you have a hobby such as knitting or quilting, use this time to work on a project you have started. Every minute spent gets you closer to finishing the project.
Pray - This is a perfect time to get in tune with yourself or any higher power that you believe in.
Reminders
If you are sleepy before your Earliest Bedtime, do not get into bed.
Only use your bed for sleep and sex.
Avoid naps except for safety reasons.
Only get into bed when you are sleepy, not just tired.
Do not worry or plan while in bed.
Focus on something physical to stop or slow down your mind from racing/random thoughts.
Get out of bed if you do not fall asleep within 20 minutes and do a restless activity that you identified below.
