Getting a good night's sleep has been difficult for me the past few years. I'd attribute that to my anxiety and the fact that I was using my room as my workspace. If you're a freelancer or someone who brings their work home, you probably know what it's like to work from bed or have a desk where you "do a little work" before turning the lights out, but it is statistically proven that separating your work from your bedroom is key for a restful night's sleep.
Since moving into my new place, I have made some significant adjustments to my bedroom and how I approach getting ready for bed. I plug in my phone away from my bed, I read, and I disconnect from social media. I haven't been able to give up screens completely, as I need my Golden Girls fix before I call it a night.
On top of lifestyle changes, I made some decor upgrades too. I bought a new bed frame and mattress, added a new pillow, sheets, and a new piece of technology. These changes have helped me get on a good night, seven hours of uninterrupted sleep when my average was about three in the past.
Here are a few items that will help set the tone for a good night of sleep and items that we're sure could help you too.
*This list is specially curated by the xoNecole team and some links are affiliate links. If you purchase an item from an affiliate link, xoNecole might earn a small commission.
Anti-Wrinkle YourFacePillow
Shutterstock
Okay, this pillow looks a little like something out of an "I wanna eat your brain" horror film, but hear me out. Sleeping on your back will help combat wrinkles since getting your z's on your side can put pressure on your face and cause the skin to wrinkle.
Sebastian Rod Pocket Insulated 100% Blackout Window Curtain Panel
From 11 PM to 3 AM, our bodies produce melatonin (the hormone that helps us fall asleep), and light can disrupt the hormone's ability to help us have a restful sleep. Blackout curtains are a great option for keeping out the light, and also keeping rooms cool during the summer months.
Milemont Gel Mattress Topper
Shutterstock
Buying a new mattress is a big investment that takes a great deal of research, so instead of recommending a new mattress, I say add a topper. Amazon has many great options, but this two-inch foam topper has over 1,000 reviews and a 4.8 out of 5 rating with reviewers saying, "So comfortable! I haven't slept this good in ages."
ZonLi Adults Weighted Blanket 20 lbs
Amazon
With over 2,000 reviews, I'd say this weighted blanket is worth a try. If you're someone that deals with anxiety or chronic pain, research shows that weighted blankets can calm the body while sleeping.
MADETEC Cool Mist Humidifier With Aromatherapy Diffuser
Amazon
Dry air, no matter the time of year, wakes me up at night usually with a coughing fit, so I invested in a humidifier. But, what if I told you, you could have both a humidifier and diffuser to mist your favorite scents in the air while you sleep. MADETEC's duo stretches your coin and comes with a remote control and timer.
Threshold 300 Thread Count Organic Cotton Solid Sheet Set
Target
There was a time in my life I could have cared less about sheets. But, one day I woke up and became an adult. Good sheets from brands like Brooklinen costs upward of $100 (which I think is worth it), but Target has a set of sheets I keep purchasing over and over — their 300 Thread Count Organic Cotton Sheets. They're soft, durable, and wash well.
Amazon Echo Dot 3rd Gen
Amazon
Hi, my name is Bianca, and I'd like to introduce you to my new best friend — the Echo Dot. The Echo Dot has been a game-changer for me and my ability to sleep through the night. I either ask Alexa to play rain sounds or an Audible book, and I wake up the next morning without any interruption. You can take the Echo Dot a step further by adding smart bulbs and plugs to your home, so you never have to get out of bed to turn off a light or the television again.
Marpac Dohm Classic White Noise Sound Machine
Marpac
Marpac Dohm is an O.G. in the noise machine game, and they have over 14,000 reviews to prove it. Whether you're looking for more sound sleep for yourself or a new baby or both, you'll get more rest.
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RELATED
From Rihanna pairing her caviar with chicken nuggets (I wonder if our Fenty queen shares with RZA and Riot Rose or if this is just for mama) to Bethenny Frankel educating us on caviar with her series "Caviar University," there’s just no escaping it.
And let’s not forget the elite king himself, DeAndre Brown, indulging in fried chicken and caviar! From videos with caviar-topped burgers, potato latkes, deviled eggs, and pasta dishes—folks are topping everything with caviar. Yet, I had not come across any Black-owned caviar brands until I discovered Caviar Dream.
My Introduction Into Caviar
I started off eating caviar in undergrad on top of sushi, exploring with a variety of roe and tobiko but as an adult, I knew I was ready to try something a little more refined. The first time I fell in love with caviar was in grad school at a southern Italian restaurant in Flatiron.
I tried an appetizer that featured caviar on bruschetta, served with thick garlic bread and burrata cheese, and from that moment, I was hooked. That has become my favorite way to enjoy caviar next to this filet mignon crostini appetizer that I served recently at a dinner party.
Everything You Need To Know About Caviar Dream
Caviar Dream
Courtesy of Yasmine Jameelah
Caviar Dream is the first nationally distributed Black- and woman-owned caviar business, redefining how people experience caviar. Founded by Kendra Anderson, a Chicago-based chef and sommelier, the company’s mission is to make caviar more accessible and inclusive, breaking down barriers and demystifying this delicacy.
What Caviar I Tried
Caviar Dream Kaluga Hybrid ($105-$420 depending on the ounce)
How I Experienced The Caviar:
For this review, I opted for a more traditional approach by pairing Caviar Dream's Kaluga Hybrid with crème fraîche, blinis, and my favorite Black-owned champagne, Le KOOL Champagne by Robert Kool Bell.
My Caviar Dream spread
Courtesy of Yasmine Jameelah
My Honest Review:
I do not say this lightly - this was by far the best caviar I’ve ever had in my life. It was buttery, had no aftertaste, and truly felt as luxurious as it looked.
Prior to this, my favorite caviar was Imperial Caviar. I’ve tried many brands, from well-known to affordable, while recreating my favorite decadent appetizers at home or enjoying caviar bumps at parties with my friends and they were my favorite until now.
Caviar Dream boasts that chefs are obsessed with this versatile hybrid, which tastes more expensive than it actually is—and they were right. This buttery caviar would pair well with any recipe, especially if you’re looking to impress someone or even treat yourself.
As a Black woman, a business owner, and someone who understands that an extension of financial wellness is circulating our dollars, I recognize the importance of incorporating Black-owned businesses throughout every aspect of my life. From my skincare to my favorite sustainable wine, my bank, and even indulgent experiences like caviar, it matters.
As we celebrate culinary innovation and expand our palates, let’s also take the extra step to support Black-owned businesses while doing it. So the next time you’re tempted by the allure of caviar, order from Caviar Dream—it just might become your new favorite.
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