Yoga for Better Sleep
If you’re anything like what seems like most of the North American population these days, chances are you have trouble falling asleep. We are very busy beings and sometimes when it’s time to end the day and crawl into bed to rest, our brains turn up the hyperdrive and do everything except relax. If this sounds like you, maybe you’d like to try a little yoga before bedtime. It may help you to relax and fall asleep sooner which means you’ll get a much needed longer and better quality sleep. Follow through the following sequence and see what you think. These poses were chosen because most can be done in bed so you can just curl right up when you’re done.
Breathing
Yoga has a strong foundation in breathing, or pranayama. Studies have also shown that taking deep, drawn out breaths helps to calm the mind and relax the body, both of which are essential pieces to getting a good night’s sleep. Start this sequence by concentrating your breathing. Take big, long, heavy drawn out breaths and try to concentrate your mind on your breathing rather than all of the other things that may come to cloud your mind at night time. For a more in depth section on breathing and for a few different breathing techniques, go here.
Standing Forward Fold
Still focusing on your breathing, stand up tall and lift your arms high up above you. Bend at the hip and slowly lower your head down to the ground while keep your back straight. Reach towards the ground with your hands and the crown of your head. You may or may not bend your knees. It’s really up to you and what feels comfortable. Remember, you are trying to relax! Hold for 10 nice long breaths.
Head to Knee
Seated now, bring one foot into the centre of your body with knee bent and bring one foot out to the side and straightened. You may also know this as the runner’s stretch. Bending again at the hip, slowly lean forward (again, to wherever is comfortable for you!) Hold for 10 long breaths on each side.
Child’s Pose
This might be one of the more common poses. It is generally a comfortable pose, especially when on your bed as the mattress will feel nice under your knees. However, if it is painful having your knees bent, please bring the hips up higher or bring the knees out wider, or opt to hold another pose for longer in it’s place. For child’s pose you will be on your knees, sitting back on your heels. Reach your arms and body forward, bending at the hip joint. Or keep your arms beside you as shown in the second photo. Hold for 10 long breaths at your point of comfort.
