5 YOGA POSES TO IMPROVE SLEEP
An often forgotten fact about yoga is that it actually helps people who struggle to sleep. Yoga relaxes the body and mind and when both are at ease, it increase the chances of quality sleep. Although compared to Chromotherapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, yoga hasn’t been proven to be as definitively effective against insomnia. Research however, has shown that it is increasingly helpful in combating poor sleeping habits.
Harvard Medical School conducted a study in which 55% of people who did yoga discovered that it helped them fall asleep easier. Additionally, 85% of the individuals surveyed confirmed that the exercise decreased their stress levels immensely. The results concluded that daily yoga sessions resulted in profound improvements in both sleep quality and quantity.
With a multitude of poses and yoga disciplines, it can be quite overwhelming when it comes to choosing which type of yoga best suits your needs. So without further ado, here is a look at 5 different yoga poses that will undoubtedly help you in your conquest to get a good night’s sleep.
1. Balasana
According to their study, Harvard Medical school listed Balasana, or Wild Knee Child’s Pose, as one the most effective poses. They share that the pose provides a sense of calmness and stability. However, individuals with hip and knee injuries are advised against attempting this particular pose due to its complexity.
The pose can be achieved with your hands either stretched out in front of your body or at the back to ease your shoulders.
2. Supta Baddha Konasana
Another suggestion from the Harvard Medical School is Supta Baddha Konasana, also known as the Reclining Bound Angle pose. The school states that tension in the hips and groins areas are relieved when doing this specific pose. This complex pose will enable the entire body to be fully stretched, relaxing all the muscles ideal for a good sleep. Similarly to Balasana, people with special hip and knee conditions are advised against trying to the pose.
3. Viparita Karani
The Legs-Up-The Wall pose, known as Viparita Karani, is said to release tension in the legs and feet. The Art Of Living shares that this pose also increases the blood supply to the brain and can cure headaches. The reclining aspect of the pose will aid you in dozing off later at night.
4. Savasana The Art of Living also lists down the Savasana pose in helping relaxing the body in time for bedtime. The pose is also known as the “Corpse Pose” as it consists of leveling the entire body by lying flat on your back. Laying straight down on the mat will instigate the body and the muscles to prepare for sleep. The pose is also highly recommended after eating as it stabilizes the entire internal system.
5. Siddhasana
Siddhasana is a pose recommended by the Yoga Journal in helping avoid insomnia. The pose is achieved by sitting on crossed ankles while putting your left hand to your outer right knee and placing your right hand behind you. Eventually, you will have to switch sides to feel the utmost effect of the pose. The relaxing stretch will leave your body tension-free and as relaxed as ever, very much like Supta Baddha Konasana, perfect for a good night’s sleep!
This is very positive considering the amount of people who suffer from insomnia across the United States. Leesa claims that 30% of Americans will experience some form of insomnia during their lives. Therefore, it is important to find counter measures that will help guard against the chances of sleep deprivation.
