Yoga for Better Sleep

For some, just hearing the three soothing syllables of ‘na-ma-ste’ can trigger feelings of calm and serenity.  Or maybe that’s just me. Either way, the benefits of practicing yoga before shuteye are numerous.  Allow me to count the sheep…I mean, ways.

1. YOGA SETS YOU UP FOR A NIGHTLY RITUAL

We’ve all heard about morning rituals to set yourself up for a successful day, but what about evening rituals?  Rather than scrolling through memes on your iPhone 11, try moving through a few yoga poses to release some tension and lull you to relaxation.

2. YOGA HELPS RELIEVE STRESS AND ANXIETY.

Have you ever noticed that the moment you realize you’re in full-anxiety mode, your heart is also racing?  It’s a thing.  Yoga can combat this by lowering heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration to take you from 100 to zen in just a few easy moves.

3. YOGA RESTORES THE BODY’S BALANCE.

Complex breathing exercises that are prevalent in yoga practice help to increase the circulation of oxygen, vital for replenishing the body. Bye bye, toxins. Hello, peace of mind

4. YOGA ENCOURAGES PEACE THROUGH PRESENCE.

Allowing yourself to focus on your breath and how to move your body through downward facing dog is a great way to let your thoughts escape so you can focus on being in the moment instead. Ahhhh-mazing.

5. YOGA UNWINDS THE NERVOUS SYSTEM.

According to highly attuned empathetic healer, Matt Kahn, an overstimulated nervous system is bound to make you feel lost and disconnected aka overwhelmed. Re-directing your attention with intentional yoga poses can help to unwind unnecessary tension and restore balance.

Reading is also a great way to unwind, so hope you’re feeling relaxed already.  Ready to take your relaxation to the next level?  Try our favorite go-to yoga moves below, and you’ll be sleep-walking your way to bed in no time.