Wind Down Right: Sleep Tips for a Restless Mind

A Minority Mental Health Awareness Month Reflection from Alpha Lambda Zeta Fraternity Inc

Sleep is one of the most essential pieces of our wellness—but for many of us, it’s also one of the hardest to get right.

In this honest and relatable reflection, Frat Lyrical shares simple but powerful habits that help her reclaim rest in a world full of distractions and deadlines.

“Number one thing I do to handle sleep issues is create a schedule for nighttime and put my phone on the charger so I’m not tempted. Unnecessary scrolling keeps me up.”

🛏️ Small Shifts, Better Sleep

Sleep issues aren’t always caused by major problems. Sometimes, it’s the small things—too much screen time, late-night work, anxious thoughts, or a lack of routine—that keep us up. Frat Lyrical’s approach reminds us that sleep hygiene is both practical and intentional.

Here are a few takeaways from her nighttime routine:

• Create a wind-down schedule

  Your body and mind need time to shift into rest mode. Treat bedtime like an appointment with yourself.

• Put the phone away

  Charging your phone across the room or out of sight can reduce late-night scrolling and help your brain disconnect.

• Sip calming tea

  Herbal teas like chamomile or lemon balm can signal to your nervous system that it’s time to relax.

• Cut off work early

  Logging off at a decent hour gives your brain space to detach from stress and ease into rest.

  
  

💬 Sleep Is Self-Respect

When we struggle to sleep, we often blame ourselves. But rest is not just about shutting your eyes—it’s about creating an environment where your body and mind feel safe enough to let go.

Frat Lyrical’s message reminds us that rest is preparation for purpose. It is how we recharge, reset, and show up whole.

🖤 So tonight, give yourself the gift of stillness. Put the phone down. Make tea. Turn off the pressure. And rest, on purpose.

July marks Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, and Alpha Lambda Zeta Fraternity, Inc. is proud to uplift the voices of our members as they share personal journeys, struggles, and strategies for prioritizing mental wellness in our communities.