YOGA POSES TO HELP YOU SLEEP BETTER

We all lead busy lives, and some of us cram so much into our day that we don't pay attention to the need for sleep. A local chiropractor tells us that a good night's sleep plays a key role in health and longevity, and it's important to get the proper quantity and quality of sleep.

The problem is that even when we go to bed at a reasonable hour, we sometimes can't fall asleep because our bodies and minds are full of the residue of stress from our busy day. Our muscles are tense and our minds are agitated, so we're not able to fall into a deep, restorative sleep.

Yoga offered by a chiropractor near me is great for stretching and soothing tense muscles and relaxing an agitated mind. Here are a few yoga poses to help you get a better night's sleep.

Child’s Pose. Kneel on the floor with your big toes touching but your knees spread apart. Slowly bend forward and walk your hands outward on the floor till your arms are straight. Touch your forehead to the floor and breathe in and out through your nose ten times.

Forward Fold. From a standing position with your feet together, inhale and bring your hands up to the ceiling. Then, exhale as you bend forward, bringing your chest toward your thighs. Caution: to avoid back strain, keep your knees bent. This is a great pose for releasing tension in your neck. Hold the pose for as long as you’re comfortable, letting it relax and stretch your back and leg muscles.

Straight Leg Twist. Sit on the floor with your right leg straight and your left knee bent, with the left foot flat on the floor. Wrap your right arm around your left knee and turn your body so you’re looking over your left shoulder. For support, place your left hand on the floor behind your left shoulder. Hold the pose for a few seconds, then repeat on the other side.

Waterfall. Lie with your back on the floor next to a wall. Slowly walk your feet up the wall as you move your bottom till it touches the base of the wall. Spread your arms out to the side. Close your eyes and breathe deeply for as long as you are comfortable. This is a great way to stimulate blood flow, relieve aches and pains in your legs, and calm your mind before sleep. 

With these simple yoga poses you’ll be able to release the tension from your day and prepare yourself for a great night’s sleep.

For more information on this and other informative health topics, go to www.mcquaitechiropractic.com