Sleep is precious, and there is nothing worse than waking up feeling exhausted. You’ve probably tried every sleep app, every meditation podcast, and every calming playlist, yet somehow your brain is still super busy. It’s almost like you want to keep a notebook next to your bed to jot down your thoughts or those don’t forget moments. 

The problem isn’t that you can’t relax; it’s that screens trick your mind into thinking it’s still daytime. The solution is far simpler, quieter, and more enjoyable than any app could ever be: reading before bed.

A nightly reading ritual helps calm your thoughts, reduce stress, and prepare your body for rest. (I feel a yawn coming on as I type; the thought of a blissful night’s sleep is so enticing.) And when you pair it with one of our Adult Book Subscription Boxes, it becomes something to look forward to every evening, a moment of story-driven serenity that helps you drift into dreamland.

Why Reading Before Bed Works Better Than Apps

We have all been told that we need to cut down on screen time before sleep, and there is actually science behind it. The blue light from phones and tablets suppresses melatonin production, tricking your brain into staying alert long after you’ve tucked in.¹ And don’t be fooled by those “relaxation” apps; unless the screen is black, they still involve some form of glowing screen that will keep you stimulated. 

Reading, on the other hand, does the opposite. Studies show that reading lowers your heart rate and stress levels while easing your body into a state of calm.²  It’s the ultimate escape that quiets the mental chatter and helps you unwind in a way that no app can beat.

 

Benefits of Reading to Relax: Build an Evening Routine That Works

Step 1: Set the Scene for Sleep

Our bodies thrive on routine and consistency, and bedtime is no exception. It’s time to start winding down, and you need to create a space that tells your brain it’s time to rest. Dim the lights, make yourself a soothing cup of tea, and grab a soft blanket. You can even play gentle instrumental music if that helps you unwind. 

The trick is to swap your phone time for page time at least 30 minutes before bed. Make it part of your self-care routine, just like brushing your teeth or journaling. We definitely recommend adding a book box subscription to your routine. You don’t have to worry about choosing the book; a whimsical book box magically appears every month, featuring a newly released novel and beautifully wrapped surprise gifts. Pure indulgence!

 

 

Each new story in your box invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and get lost in the pages instead of scrolling through endless feeds. And if you’re looking for the perfect book box to start your new routine, look no further than the Self-Love Box. It’s the perfect end to a busy day!

Step 2: How Long Should I Read Before Bed?

You don’t need to read for hours to reap the benefits. In fact, according to the Sleep Foundation, just 10 to 20 minutes of reading before bed is enough to improve relaxation and signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down! What matters most is consistency. Reading at the same time each night builds a routine your body recognizes as a cue for rest. 

If you’re someone who loves tracking progress, use the OUABC Notebook or the Good Vibes Only Notebook to jot down your nightly reflections, favorite quotes, or how many pages you’ve read. A few minutes each night creates a wonderful ritual, and soon your eyes will be growing heavy by the end of each chapter.

 

Step 3: Choose the Right Books for Better Sleep

Not all books are created equal when it comes to bedtime reading. Let’s be honest, a thriller that keeps you on edge is not the way to go! You’ll be lying there wondering about every small noise. 

The best choices are cozy, uplifting, and emotionally satisfying stories that leave you smiling rather than stressing. Gentle romances, heartwarming fiction, and character-driven tales are ideal for helping your mind relax. 

Explore the Adult Ready-to-Ship Book Boxes for stories ready to transform your nightly routine into something special.

Step 4: Replace Screens With Storytime

We like to think of reading as our “digital sunset.” After 9 PM, leave your phone in another room to avoid the temptation to check just one more thing, because you know that one more thing quickly turns into another, and soon you’re answering work emails when you’re supposed to be winding down for bed.

Although blue light is one culprit, constant alerts and mental stimulation are another, and that small buzz of a message coming in can be irresistible. Replacing that final scroll with storytime signals your brain to power down. 

A book doesn’t ask for attention; it invites it, and the difference is profound. Reading draws you into a world where time slows down, where your brain relaxes, and where sleep comes naturally. 

Step 5: Combine Reading With Mindfulness

Reading before bed isn’t just about the story; it’s about the moment you create around it. Try mindful reading by slowing your pace, taking deep breaths, and truly immersing yourself in each sentence. Feel the texture of the pages, listen to the soft rustle as you turn them, and we love the scent of a new book’s pages. 

The OUABC book box experience is naturally mindful as each unboxing engages your senses, from the anticipation of a new book to the tactile joy of uncovering each surprise gift. It’s guaranteed to bring you fully into the present moment, where your day finally lets go.

Paper Books vs E-books Before Bed

When it comes to bedtime reading, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and honestly, we love both. Physical books are a wonderful way to go completely screen-free, offering that comforting, tactile experience of turning pages and settling into a slower, more intentional wind-down. Use a warm amber lamp or a soft book light to create a relaxing glow. Create the perfect atmosphere and set yourself up for sleeping success!

E-readers, on the other hand, are designed with comfort in mind. Devices like Kindles and Kobos use e-ink screens that don’t emit the same glow as phones or TVs, making them a great option for reading in bed. They’re lightweight, easy on the eyes, and perfect for those moments when you want to curl up without worrying about dropping a hardback on your face as you drift off.

At the end of the day, the best choice is the one that fits your routine and helps you relax. Whether you’re team paper, team e-reader, or happily switching between the two, what matters most is ending your day with a good story.

 

Reading Instead of Scrolling: Your Sleep Reset Plan

If you’re ready to break the scrolling habit, try this simple five-night sleep challenge. For the next week, swap 15 minutes of nighttime scrolling for reading. Start with a gentle, engaging book and use a printable Sleep Habit Tracker to jot down what time you went to bed, how long you read, and how you felt the next morning. 

By night five, we bet you’ll notice a difference. There will be less tossing and turning, less anxiety, and a bonus: you will wake up feeling refreshed. Stories are the original lullaby for grown-ups!

Turn the Page, Not the Screen

Real rest doesn’t come from apps or blue-light glasses; it comes from rituals that calm your mind and nurture your imagination. A great book will help you unwind, unplug, and get the rest you deserve. 

So tonight, skip the screen and reach for a story instead. Let 2026 be the year you trade scrolling for serenity, one page at a time. 

For more inspiration on stress-free reading routines, check out Why Reading Before Bed Improves Holiday Stress Management. Sweet dreams from all of us at Once Upon a Book Club.