Unplug and Recharge with Restful Sleep
We all know how important getting enough rest is, but too often we find ourselves burning the midnight oil in order to get ahead. This can lead to a lack of restful sleep that can have a negative effect on our overall health and wellbeing. Fortunately, there are several yoga fitness exercises that can help you find the restful sleep you need for your body and mind to recharge.
Restorative Yoga
One of the best ways to promote restful sleep is through restorative yoga. Restorative yoga uses props such as bolsters, blankets, blocks, straps and chairs to help the yogi relax into poses without any strain or effort. The use of props helps support the body so that one can hold poses for longer periods of time. This allows for deeper relaxation and increases circulation which helps reduce stress and tension in the body.
Yoga Nidra
Yoga Nidra is another technique for achieving restful sleep that can be done both on and off the mat. It involves lying down in a comfortable position and focusing on breath work while also listening to guided meditation or visualizations. This practice helps reduce stress levels which leads to better quality sleep at night. Practicing Yoga Nidra regularly will allow you to access deep states of relaxation which leads to improved mental clarity and productivity during waking hours.
Incorporate Movement Into Your Day
Another way to encourage restful sleep is by incorporating movement into your day-to-day routine. This could mean taking a walk outdoors during lunchtime or signing up for a yoga class after work if possible. Exercise releases endorphins which help with relaxation as well as improving moods, increasing energy levels, boosting immunity, and more! Moving throughout the day will also help keep your body engaged instead of being sedentary which can lead to fatigue later on when it’s time for bed.
Getting regular restful sleep is essential for maintaining our overall wellbeing; however, too often we find ourselves sacrificing our sleep in order to stay productive during waking hours. Fortunately, there are several techniques from yoga fitness that one can incorporate into daily life in order to promote better quality of sleep at night including practicing Restorative Yoga, Yoga Nidra, and incorporating movement into your routine throughout the day. Making these small changes can have a big impact on how rested you feel during waking hours!