The practice of good sleep isn’t easy for anyone. In a world where it is glorified to do more and sleep less, we want to press pause for a quick interview with Kat Dey, mother/wife/activist and ettitude co-founder, on how she prioritizes rest.
It is far too common for work to seep into everyday life and even the bedroom! What boundaries do you set for yourself or your family to create a good sleep environment?
I make a conscious effort to keep work out of the bedroom. Our bedroom is a tech-free sanctuary dedicated to rest and relaxation. I also prioritize a calming bedtime routine for myself and my kids (most often together to save time!)— reading books, taking a bath, massage (for the kids or self-massage) or using soothing scents like lavender. Creating a consistent wind-down routine helps everyone in our household transition more easily to sleep.
Have you ever dealt with insomnia? If so, what helped you?
Yes, especially during high-stress periods like fundraising or major product launches. When my mind is racing, I keep a physical notepad next to my bed to jot down any lingering thoughts or to-dos. This simple practice helps clear my mind and prevents worries from keeping me awake. I also practice grounding techniques, like standing barefoot outside during the day, which supports my overall sleep quality.
Are you a napper?
I don't nap! I usually get enough sleep to keep me going through the whole day. However, on intense days with kids, especially when travel is involved, I usually take a nap with them together to recharge.
As a mom, how have you dealt with scheduling work and adhering to bedtime routines?
Consistency is key. We follow a predictable bedtime routine for the kids, which provides structure and signals that it’s time to wind down. I also try to wrap up work by the evening so I can be fully present during their bedtime. It isn’t always perfect—especially when work demands spike—but maintaining these rituals helps our whole family get better rest.
Do you use any apps to help you sleep?
I occasionally use meditation apps like Calm or Insight Timer (for me) to listen to guided breathing exercises or Storybook (for kids) to listen to sleep stories.
What is one product (ettitude) you can’t live without?
Our Signature CleanBamboo sheets are an absolute must-have. They’re unbelievably soft, temperature-regulating, and breathable, which makes a world of difference for a restful night’s sleep. Once you experience sleeping on them, you won’t go back to anything else!
What is one sleep product you use (not ettitude) that helps aid in your sleep health?
A heating pad is another favorite. The gentle warmth helps relax tense muscles and provides soothing comfort, especially on colder nights or after a long day.
Any tips for helping with toddler sleep regression or teething!?
Patience and flexibility are essential. For teething, a soothing bedtime routine with a warm bath and gentle gum massages can help ease discomfort. When dealing with sleep regressions, I focus on providing extra comfort while maintaining a consistent bedtime environment. It’s also helpful to remind myself that these phases are temporary—and investing in good sleep habits early on pays off in the long run.
Any last thoughts for us?
Balancing the demands of running a fast-growing company like ettitude while raising two young kids is no small feat. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene is essential for my well-being and ability to lead effectively. I set clear boundaries around work and sleep to protect my rest. For instance, I avoid checking emails or screens at least an hour before bed, which helps me wind down and signal to my brain that it’s time to rest.
