Do you ever have trouble getting a good night’s sleep? Yoga is so much more than just exercise. It can help us relax our body and mind, reducing stress and preparing us for a peaceful sleep. Here are five poses you can do right before laying down that will make it easier for you to drift off into dreamland.
child’s Pose
Child’s pose is a classic yoga posture that is both calming and gentle. It is a great posture for relieving stress, stretching out your spine, and finding balance between your mind and body. To do this posture, begin on your hands and knees, spread your knees wide apart and bring your chest towards your thighs. Slowly lower your head and arms to the floor in front of you, taking deep breaths and allowing your body to relax.
Legs Up the Wall Pose
Legsup the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani) is an inversion that helps to stretch out the back and calves, relieving tension and stress. To do this pose, sit on the floor in front of a wall, roll over and bring your legs up onto the wall. Rest here for 10 minutes. This pose is especially helpful for improving circulation, and calming your mind.
Seated Forward Bend Pose
This pose helps to relax your mind and body and calm your nervous system. To do this posture, sit on the floor, legs straight out in front of you, and slowly lower your chest towards your legs. This can be an intense stretch, so decision to go as far as feels comfortable. After a few breaths, slowly come back up to starting pose.
Corpse Pose
Corpse Pose – also known as savasana – is a key element of yoga and is perfect for pre-sleep relaxation. This pose helps to release muscle tension, allowing for a more restful sleep. To do corpse pose, lay flat on your back, eyes closed and legs uncrossed. Take a few deep breaths, allowing your body to sink further into the ground. Feel every inch of your body relax one by one. Stay here for 10 minutes and then exit slowly, feeling completely relaxed and at peace.
Happy Baby Pose
This pose helps to get the lower back ready for a peaceful sleep. To do this posture, lay flat on your back, then lightly hold the soles of your feet, opening your knees wide. Rock back and forth while actively pushing your lower back into the ground, releasing tension as you breathe. Feel your entire body sink further into the ground and become at ease.
These five yoga poses are great for unwinding after a long day and preparing for a tranquil night of sleep. Even if you can’t make it to your local yoga class, try to make time each night to fit them into your routine.
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