If you’re like me and struggle with insomnia, it can be super frustrating trying to think of things to do when bored at night. No one wants to be lying in bed doing nothing for hours, just waiting to go to sleep.
So what sort of things to do when bored at night?
Here’s a list of suggestions, some of which may actually help you drop off to sleep – a win, win situation!
What To Do When You’re Bored At Night
ASMR
Something I like to do when bored at night, struggling to sleep or just wanting to relax, is to watch ASMR videos.
ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) is a tingling sensation, triggered by several different things such as whispering, tapping etc.
I didn’t think I would like this at all at first. In fact, I thought it was a bit strange but after watching a few ASMR videos that relaxed me so much that I fell asleep within 10 minutes… I’m absolutely hooked.
It gives me a similar tingly, relaxed feeling that I get when my hair is brushed or I get a massage.
My favourite ASMR artist is WhispersRedASMR, her content is incredible.
Colouring
Adult colouring books have been all the rage the last few years. They are well known for being great for stress.
I’m suggesting this one because it’s something you can easily do in bed, then pop the book and pencils on your bedside table before drifting off to sleep.
Suggested: A Swear Word Coloring Book for Adults: Sweary AF: F*ckity F*ck F*ck F*ck
Read
You’ve probably already thought of this one. Out of all the things to do when bored at night, this is probably the top of most peoples list.
I’d recommend reading something that actually relaxes you, instead of reading something suspenseful that might keep you up all night.
Suggested: End the Insomnia Struggle: A Step-by-Step Guide to Help You Get to Sleep and Stay Asleep
Write
Either on a laptop in bed or a journal, writing is therapeutic.
It could potentially help get those nagging creative thoughts out into the world, instead of them keeping you up all night.
Night Photography
This one takes you outside but if you’re already struggling to sleep, then a bit of fresh air and exercise won’t exactly hurt.
You can turn your insomnia into a positive hobby and take some great shots of the night sky and all of it’s wonder.
Here’s a guide on how to take low-light photography.
If you’re not so good at photography or don’t want to get the gear, then you could stargaze instead.
Volunteer
Another one that will take you out of the house but perhaps you could find a volunteer position to occupy the boring, lonely nights.
Helplines could always do with volunteers and some are open 24 hours.
Clean
In the past, I’ve been known to clean the house at 2am because of my inability to sleep at night.
The exercise helps burn off energy and it’s nice to wake up to a clean house.
Meal Prep
If this is something you usually don’t have time for, then the hours you normally waste because you can’t sleep could be used on prepping meals.
Have A Bath
If it won’t disturb anyone, then there’s nothing to say you can’t have a bath in the middle of the night if you find yourself unable to sleep.
I did this a lot when I was pregnant because it was too uncomfortable to sleep.
Light a candle, have a lavender bath and relax.
Sometimes when I have a really hot bath, I’m so exhausting afterwards that I just lie on my bed in my towel and fall asleep… no matter what time it is.
Listen To Music
Of all the things to do when bored at night, this is my go-to. I live for music, I love it.
I could spend hours just listening to music on my headphones and not do anything else.
Certain music is good for relaxation and sleep. Take a look at some of my favourite calming songs.
Conclusion: What to do when you’re bored at night
You might notice that all the things I suggested promote sleep in some way. You could just do anything you would normally do in the evening, watching netflix etc. but I find those things just keep you up longer and don’t help the sleep issue.
Related: 30+ Productive Things To Do When Bored And Feeling Low
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Hey Kel!- This is a great blog post. I sometimes struggle with insomnia as a byproduct of anxiety and ADHD. This list is great to use on the nights where sleep just doesn’t seem to find me. I try to stick to a simple and easy to implement sleep hygiene routine, but sometimes I just need more help. My favorites on your list are read, listen to music and take a bath.
I have found myself doing all three (sometimes at the same time) on really terrible nights when sleep seems too far out of reach. In particular Cello Music seems to act like a lullaby to me lol! Thanks again for a great article
XO- Summer
It was perfect the first time. I learn so much from you as well! Keep it up great post.
Of course, you can find a lot of activities for yourself in the evening ,but if nothing comes to mind, you can look here https://holidays.ru.com/2020/01/26/things-to-do-when-bored-at-night/
Hi Kel,
Your solutions seemed lovely. I am actually going to adapt all these because I amongst those individuals who are often especially at the night time.
Thank you so much for the ideas, they will for sure make my boring night a joyful one. I would be spending more time in the bathroom this time around 🙂
Hi Kel.
What great suggestions. Thanks for explaining ASMR. I think my anxious son would really benefit from this. Anything to help his over-active mind settle, poor thing.
To your really desperate readers I suggest a new baby…they often keep you busy at night 🤣
I actually needed this so much! I end up getting really bored at night and then don’t fall asleep until 3 am 😂
Tiffany
Phlanx’s Marketing Specialist
Thanks for sharing this wonderful post. Finding something to have fun is always challenging. But these things can really help.
This is a great article, will share with my friends too, who are always having boring nights
I also read another article on similar topic which is worth reading
Keep it up