Life can feel busy. Between work, family, errands, and endless to-do lists, finding time to truly relax can be challenging. But creating moments of calm, especially before bed, can make it easier to unwind and get the restful sleep your body needs.
That’s why National Relaxation Day is the perfect reminder to slow down and prioritize rest. Whether you’re looking for ways to quiet your mind, create a more calming bedtime routine, or learn relaxation techniques that can help you fall asleep faster, small changes can make a big difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 relaxation techniques and relaxation tips you can try before bed to help you feel more relaxed and ready for sleep.
What Is Relaxation?
So, what is relaxation? Relaxation is the process of helping your body and mind shift from a state of stress and alertness into a calmer state.
Relaxation doesn’t always mean doing nothing. It can include activities that help reduce tension, slow your breathing, clear your mind, and prepare your body for rest.
For many people, relaxation before bed is an important part of healthy sleep habits and can support better sleep quality over time.
When Is National Relaxation Day?
National Relaxation Day is celebrated every year on August 15, so mark your calendar for the 15th as a reminder to take time for yourself, practice self care, and prioritize relaxation.
National Relaxation Day 2026 falls on Saturday, August 15, making it a great opportunity to create a relaxing weekend routine focused on rest and recovery.
What Are Some Relaxation Techniques That Help You Sleep?
Everyone relaxes differently. Some people prefer quiet activities like reading, while others benefit from movement, breathing exercises, or creating a soothing bedroom environment.
If you’re wondering, “What are some relaxation techniques that can help before bed?”, try these simple strategies.
1. Practice Deep Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing is one of the simplest relaxation techniques you can try anywhere. When you slow your breathing, you send signals to your body that it’s time to relax.
Try this before bed:
- Breathe in slowly through your nose.
- Hold for a few seconds.
- Slowly exhale.
- Repeat for several minutes.
Adding deep breathing to your bedtime routine can help create a calmer transition from your day to your night.
2. Try a Body Scan Meditation
A body scan is a mindfulness technique that helps you release physical tension. Start by focusing on one area of your body at a time, from your toes to your head. Notice areas where you feel tension and consciously relax those muscles. This simple practice can help quiet a busy mind and prepare your body for sleep.
3. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Your brain learns to associate routines with certain activities. A consistent bedtime routine can help signal that it’s time to wind down.
Try adding relaxing activities like:
- Reading a book
- Stretching gently
- Listening to calming music
- Taking a warm bath or shower
- Journaling
- Turning on a dim light, like the Casper Glow Night Light
A comfortable sleep environment can also make your routine feel more relaxing. Casper’s collection of mattresses, pillows, bedding, and Lifestyle Adjustable Bases (that feature Zero Gravity and pre-bed massage settings!) are designed to help create a cozy bedroom setup that supports better rest.
4. Use Calming Scents and Essential Oils
Certain scents can help create a relaxing atmosphere before bed. If you’re wondering, ”What are the best essential oils for sleep and relaxation?”, popular options include:
- Lavender
- Chamomile
- Cedarwood
- Bergamot
- Sandalwood
Try adding a few drops to a diffuser or using a lightly scented spray on your pillow or sleep mask as part of your bedtime routine.
Remember that essential oils affect everyone differently, so choose scents you personally find calming.
5. Stretch Before Bed
Gentle stretching can help release muscle tension after a long day. You don’t need an intense workout. Simple movements like those listed below can help your body feel more comfortable and ready for sleep:
- Neck rolls
- Shoulder stretches
- Gentle yoga poses
- Hamstring stretches
6. Make Your Bedroom a Relaxing Space
Your sleep environment plays an important role in helping you relax. A bedroom designed for rest should feel comfortable, calm, and inviting.
Consider:
- Keeping your room cool and dark
- Reducing clutter around your bed (the Casper Repose Wooden Nightstand can help with this)
- Using soft lighting, like the Casper Glow Night Light, in the evening
- Choosing comfortable bedding, like Casper’s SuperSoft TENCEL™ Sheets
A supportive mattress and pillow can also help you feel more comfortable throughout the night.
7. Write Down Your Thoughts
A busy mind can make it difficult to fall asleep. If you find yourself thinking about tomorrow’s tasks, try writing them down before bed.
Create a quick list of:
- Things you need to remember
- Tasks for tomorrow
- Thoughts you want to revisit later
Getting your thoughts onto paper can help create mental space for rest.
8. Limit Screen Time Before Bed
Phones, tablets, and computers can keep your mind active when you’re trying to relax. Try creating a screen-free period before bedtime.
Instead of scrolling, try:
- Reading
- Listening to a podcast
- Practicing meditation
- Spending quiet time with family
Small changes to your evening routine can make bedtime feel more peaceful.
9. Listen to Relaxing Sounds
Calming sounds can help create a peaceful bedtime environment.
Try:
- White noise
- Rain sounds
- Nature sounds
- Soft music
These sounds can help cover distractions and create a consistent background that encourages relaxation.
10. Make Support and Comfort Your Two Main Priorities
Relaxation starts with feeling comfortable. Start with a mattress that offers both comfort and support. Casper’s mattress lineup includes hybrid mattresses, memory foam mattresses, and cooling mattresses, all available in three firmness levels so you can find the perfect bed for your sleep style.
Casper also offers thoughtfully designed and long-lasting pillows, bedroom furniture, and bedding, to help create a bedroom that feels like a place to unwind. A comfortable sleep space makes it easier to turn bedtime into a relaxing daily ritual.
Start Relaxing Tonight
You don’t need to completely change your routine to relax more before bed. Start with one or two simple habits and build from there. National Relaxation Day is a great reminder that rest is an important part of overall wellness.
Whether you try meditation, deep breathing, essential oils, stretching, or simply creating a more comfortable bedroom, the right relaxation routine can help you feel more prepared for sleep.
This August 15, and every night after, take a little time to slow down, relax, and create space for better rest.
FAQs
What is National Relaxation Day?
National Relaxation Day is an annual observance on August 15 that encourages people to slow down, practice self care, and make time for activities that help reduce stress and support overall well-being.
When is National Relaxation Day?
National Relaxation Day takes place every year on August 15. In 2026, National Relaxation Day falls on Saturday, August 15.
What are some relaxation techniques to help you sleep?
Some helpful relaxation techniques include deep breathing, meditation, gentle stretching, journaling, listening to calming sounds, and creating a consistent bedtime routine.
What are the best essential oils for sleep and relaxation?
Popular essential oils for sleep and relaxation include lavender, chamomile, cedarwood, bergamot, and sandalwood. Choose scents you personally find calming and use them as part of a relaxing bedtime routine.
How can relaxation help you fall asleep faster?
Relaxation can help calm your mind and reduce physical tension, making it easier for your body to transition into sleep. Simple habits like deep breathing, limiting screens, and creating a comfortable bedroom can support better rest.
How can I make my bedroom more relaxing?
Create a relaxing bedroom by keeping the space cool, dark, and comfortable. A supportive mattress, cozy bedding, and a comfortable pillow can also help create an environment designed for better sleep.
How long should I relax before going to bed?
There is no set amount of time required, but even 10 to 30 minutes of relaxing activities before bed can help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.
What is Casper’s delivery time in Canada?
Casper Canada orders usually ship out in 3 to 5 business days and arrive 2 to 10 business days after that.
What is the Casper Canada return policy?
Casper Canada offers a 100-night sleep trial on all mattresses. If you’re not in love with your Casper bed-in-a-box at any time during the trial, you can make a free and easy return. Casper Canada has free returns for all mattresses and will even pick up your mattress from your front door.
Does Casper Canada offer a mattress warranty?
Yes, Casper Canada offers a 10-year limited warranty on all mattresses.
How long does a Casper mattress last?
Wondering “how long does a mattress last?” The average mattress lasts between 7 and 10 years when cared for properly. However, memory foam mattresses, especially those made of high-density foam, like all Casper mattresses, can retain their shape and offer support longer than low-quality foam mattresses (sometimes up to 12 years).
Whether it's foam, spring, or hybrid, the longevity of a mattress is tied to the quality of the components. Casper Canada mattresses are backed by a 10-year warranty and use the highest quality components, like CertiPUR-US® Certified Foam, to ensure every mattress provides years of comfortable, restful sleep.
Learn more about when to replace your mattress.
Where can I buy a Casper mattress in Canada?
Wondering where to buy a Casper mattress in Canada? The Casper Mattress is available exclusively on Casper.ca and in Casper Canada stores. The rest of Casper’s mattress lineup, including the Original Hybrid Mattress and the Wave Hybrid Snow Mattress, is available on Casper.ca, in Casper Canada stores, and in Sleep Country Canada stores.
