Putting my screens away before bed changed how I fall asleep
By Eli Mercer on
I’ve struggled with insomnia for as long as I can remember, and like many people, I’m a total screen addict. I scroll through Instagram, TikTok, or just binge random YouTube videos right up until I know I should be sleeping. And then, of course, I lie there wide awake, feeling frustrated and anxious that I can’t fall asleep.
A few nights ago, I decided to try something radical: no screens at least an hour before bed. No phone, no laptop, no TV. I poured myself a cup of herbal tea, dimmed the lights, and just… sat in quiet. At first, my brain freaked out. I wanted to check notifications. I wanted to open some app “just for a second.” But slowly, I noticed my mind calm down instead of racing. My thoughts weren’t bouncing as wildly, and I actually started feeling sleepy.
I’m not saying it’s a miracle cure, but the difference has been noticeable. I fall asleep a bit faster, and I wake up feeling slightly more rested. I’m learning that screens don’t just distract me, they overstimulate my brain and make it impossible for it to wind down naturally.
I still struggle some nights, and yes, I sometimes cave and scroll for “just five minutes.” But being intentional about stepping away from the screen has quickly become my favorite trick for sleep health.