I started a new tradition. Rather than turning on the overhead light at night when I’m getting ready for bed, I light two candles on my dresser. I love candles, so I always have a big basket of small candles in a variety of fragrances. One candle is in a plain glass candle holder and the other is in a decorative holder I bought from Party Lights years ago which has been collecting dust since we left California 11 years ago. The Party Lights candle holder makes beautiful crystal lights dance on the walls.

Too much light at bedtime wakes me up. The soft glow of the candles, as opposed to the glaring shout of the overhead light, has a wonderful calming effect on my mood. The fancy candle holder is nice, but a single candle by itself would work just as well.

Also, we don’t have bedside lamps. With the candles I can blow them out and then quickly jump under the covers. The light switch is all the way on the other side of the room and difficult to reach behind the door. Banging shins on the wall and stubbing toes on the bed frame tend to start an adrenaline rush. No good for sleeping!

I love the smooth cinnamon smell of the current candles. Lavender would be another good choice for most people, although I’m horribly allergic so I’ll have to pass on that one. For nighttime, I think vanilla would be another good choice. I’ll have to check out my candle stash.

Now my bedroom has become a welcome retreat. I’m still surprised that making such a small change would make such a big difference!