It's no surprise to hear that you shouldn't be watching Netflix before bed. In fact, according to most studies, you shouldn't even look at a screen of any sort within two hours of trying to sleep. For most people, myself included, Netflix serves as a bridge from life to slumber.

In case you're on the fence about kicking your "Netflix Before Bed" habit and need a little encouragement, here are 15 things you can do before bed instead of watching Netflix that are actually productive.

1. Journal.

I should be honest. This is not something I'm good at. But I like the idea of sitting in bed each night and recounting and summarizing the day. The entries can be as long or short as you want them to be. The point is just to put a "cap" on the day. It may not seem useful at the time, but you'll appreciate it when you're 50 and wanting to be 20 again.

2. Color.

I know it sounds stupid, but put some music on in the background and color a picture. Do it in the same coloring book and date each page. It's a simple, but effective way to feel accomplished. Also, you can use these pictures to decorate a room.

3. Write.

Barnes and Noble sells journals that have different kinds of writing prompts at the top of each page. If you're like me and into fiction writing, it can be soothing to follow one of these prompts each night before bed. Plus, they can help you to start that novel you've been wanting to write.

4. Yoga.

Look, I'm not a yoga person myself. But I will say that it is super easy to get into because you can start out slow. The Daily Yoga app is a great place to begin. It will leave you feeling relaxed and toned before bed.

5. Make A List.

This list can be of anything: bucket list, tomorrow's to-do list, books you want to read, places you want to go. Take a journal and make a new list each night or add to lists you already have. This gives you a sense of accomplishment before going to bed.

6. Meditate.

Much like yoga, meditation can be tricky to get into. It's difficult to know where to begin. But really, it's whatever you want it to be. For me, it's simply sitting, closing my eyes, and listening to classical music while I breathe deeply. It's a good way to decompress.

7. Take A Hot Bath.

This one's pretty self-explanatory. Hot baths equal relaxed muscles. It also helps to add a little lavender to the bath to help with sleep.

8. Work On A Puzzle.

The cool thing about this is it can easily be an ongoing activity. Turn on some music (or your favorite podcast) and work on a puzzle. Then, when you're finished, you can seal it and frame it.

9. Read A Book.

Reading is a great way to keep your mind occupied at night when you're not quite tired enough for bed, but want to avoid watching TV and surfing social media. If you're not into reading, consider an audiobook. Audible has every audiobook you could imagine.

10. Pamper Yourself.

Clip your fingernails, paint your toenails, shave, put on a facemask, and grab that hair mask you've been wanting to try.

11. Knit Or Make Friendship Bracelets.

I know it sounds childish/grandma-ish, but think of it this way, instead of sitting in bed and wasting away while watching The Office for the 12^th time, use your energy to make something. This is especially useful if you want to give the gift of hand-made presents this year at Christmas. (Tip — start early!)

12. Clean.

I don't know about you, but I get most of my cleaning inspiration right before bed. Give in to the urge and clean your room, organize your closet, vacuum under your bed. Just whatever you do, don't watch Netflix while you do it!

13. Play A Musical Instrument.

If you play guitar, ukulele, piano, flute, have a little jam session before bed. Of course, be mindful of your neighbors. If you don't play an instrument, use the hour before bed to learn!

14. Pamper Your Pets.

If you have a pet (or multiple if you're like me), right before bed is a great time to take care of everything you've been meaning to do for them (i.e. clean the litter box, vacuum the hair off the furniture, clip their nails, brush their hair, wash their food bowls, etc.). If anything, just spend time with them. Give them lots of pets and love.

15. Style Your Hair.

I know it sounds stupid to fix your hair before bed. The truth is, we all have that hairstyle that we saw at the mall, on TV, or on social media that we really want to try. I'm sure we also all know the frustration that comes with trying something new in the morning before work or school and it failing miserably. So try before bed, work out the kinks, and be ready to do it for real in the morning!