Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendra, highlights the pervasive consequences of insomnia, including reduced immunity, weight gain, and various lifestyle disorders. Yoga, a therapeutic practice, holds the potential to alleviate sleep problems such as erratic sleep cycles and insomnia. Beyond its sleep-enhancing effects, yoga provides holistic benefits for the mind, body, and spirit. By integrating gentle and accessible yoga poses into your bedtime routine, you can induce relaxation and prepare both your body and mind for rejuvenating sleep.
Here are some recommendations for enhancing sleep quality:
- Manage Stress and Anxiety: Protracted periods of stress can hinder falling asleep. Counter this by cultivating a habit of calming your mind before bedtime through relaxation techniques or gentle yoga exercises.
- Limit Digital Devices in the Bedroom: The blue light from screens disrupts sleep-wake cycles. Avoid electronic devices, like mobile phones, at least an hour before sleep. Opt for serene activities such as reading to encourage tranquil slumber.
Below are several yoga asanas (poses) to enhance sleep quality:
- Pawanmuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose): Lie on your back, bring your knees toward your chest, and press your thighs against your abdomen. Inhale, lift your head, allowing your chin to touch your knees. Breathe deeply, hold, and release. Repeat for relaxation.
- Manduka Asana (Frog Pose): Sit in Vajrasana, extend your arms in front, form fists, and bend your upper body over your lower body, stretching your neck while gazing forward.
- Shalabasana (Locust Pose): Lie on your stomach, lift both legs while keeping them straight, and place your chin or forehead on the ground. Hold and release.
- Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): Lie on your stomach, lift your head, shoulders, and torso at a 30-degree angle, and hold before releasing.
- Dhanurasana (Bow Pose): Lie on your stomach, bend your knees, hold your ankles, and lift your legs and arms as high as possible. Hold and release.
Incorporate these asanas into your nighttime routine, dedicating 10-15 minutes to create a serene environment for better sleep. You can further enhance the experience with pranayama exercises like Brahmari Dhyan and Aarambh Dhyan, as well as techniques like Anulom Vilom and Brahmari pranayama, all contributing to a night of restful sleep.
Image Source: BeyondBlue
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