Sleep, wake, repeat. Read all about how our friends optimize their surroundings, unwind, and relax the mind for a good night—every night.

We sat down with Tegan Woo, the founder of Amoda Tea, makers of matcha adaptogen blends and wellness teas for body, mind and mood, to talk about her nightly bedtime rituals.

Double, Queen, or King? 

I have a queen, but I dream of a king. 

Why is a good night’s sleep important to you? 

There’s so many reasons! When I’ve gone even a few days with less than my optimal sleep, my work day ends up dragging into the evening because I can’t stay focused. This can turn into anxiety for me, so it’s an easy decision now (most of the time!) for me to prioritize sleep. I’m also almost 40 and am much more cognizant of the long term consequences of consistent lack of sleep and the effect on my immune system. I also strength train 5 times a week, so I need the sleep for muscle recovery! 

How many hours of sleep do you get a night—or at least dream of getting? 

I always try to get 7 on weekdays and 8 on the weekends. 

Are you a dreamer? 

I rarely remember dreaming, but when I do dream, they’re vivid and memorable.

What’s currently on your bedside table? 

My journal, a glass of water, and a Seventh & Oak candle. 

Do you partake in any nightly routine before settling into bed? 

I try to, but am not always successful at following my nighttime routine. My goal time to be in bed is 10pm. I turn my screens off an hour before bed and steep Amoda’s Sleep tea, wash any dishes in my sink, get everything laid out for the gym in the morning, do my skincare routine, listen to Lalah Delia meditation as I crawl into bed. 

Tell us about where the magic happens—and by magic, we mean sleep. How do you optimize your sleep environment? 

I only have dim light on after dark and keep my bedroom cool. I clean my sheets often so my bed is cozy and comfortable and feels good to crawl into. There is nothing better than the feeling of clean sheets! I also try to stay consistent with my bedtime - within a 30-40 minute window. 

If you feel a restless night coming on, is there anything you do to help get you through the night without waking? 

For me this starts before bed. I drink our Sleep Tea and find the herbs help calm my mind and relax my muscles before bedtime. I used to have a very hard time falling asleep, so now when I feel even the slightest restlessness, I can get very anxious that I’m not going to be able to fall asleep. I take a few deep breaths and then as I breathe normally, I focus on the air going in and out, so much so that I can’t think about anything else. It’s my thoughts that make me restless, so the key is to focus on something specific.

What kind of pillows do you use to keep your head in the clouds? 

I have an Endy pillow. It definitely keeps me floating in the clouds.

Last but not least, what is your number one piece of can’t-sleep-without advice? 

Listening to sleep meditations on Insight Timer really helped me become a better sleeper.