“Also, I could finally sleep. And this was the real gift, because when you cannot sleep, you cannot get yourself out of the ditch–there’s not a chance.”
― Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat, Pray, Love
One of the most agonizing states I know is the purgatory of insomnia, when I am exhausted and desperate to sleep but still my mind and body hold me captive in the waking world. If the Centers for Disease Control statistic that one in three adult Americans are not getting enough deep sleep on regular basis is right, you may well know this particular agony also. Sleep, so seemingly simple, continues to allude many of us.
Why does sleep matter anyway? As Liz Gilbert says, we must sleep well enough and long enough in order to stay out of the “ditch.”
Here are some of my favorite practices and tips to set myself up for good sleep.
Design your own unique Power Down Hour by choosing which ones work best for you and practicing them consistently.
Start winding down an hour before the time you’re wanting to fall asleep.
Practice gentle evening yoga – I’ve got a few perfect classes for you right here on yogadownload.com.
Turn your lights down low lights, or light some candles instead.
Stop using TV, computer or handheld device screens two hours before sleep, or if you must be in front of the screen, wear blue light blocking glasses (which make a stylin’ evening yoga accessory!)
Make sure you’re well-hydrated, but try not to drink liquids just before bed so you won’t have to get up in the middle of the night to eliminate.
Take an epsom salt bath or warm shower.
Rub lavender oil into the soles of your feet, or sprinkle a drop onto your pillow case.
Eat earlyish in the evening to be finished digesting before slumbering. Consider taking an evening walk after dinner.
Brew yourself up some turmeric Golden Milk for an after dinner treat.
Write out a gratitude list in your journal, or do a “brain dump” exercise if your mind is still busy from your day.
Ask your doctor about taking Magnesium before bed. Generally helps sleep, muscular relaxation and digestion.
Spend a few minutes rolling around on the floor with Yoga Tune Up Balls.
When you get into bed, take a few deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth, then scan your body for any tension and give it permission to relax.
Consider using an app to help you fall asleep. This NPR piece details which ones work best and why.
Sweet dreams, Elise
By Elise Fabricant
Elise is a life coach and teacher on YogaDownload.com.
Want some more support on getting enough quality rest? Elise's online course REVIVE: 30 Days to Vitality, Health & Ease dives deeper sleeping rituals and other yogic lifestyle habits. I’m also always at your service for one-on-one coaching. If you’re ready to make big changes in all aspects of your life, sign up for a complimentary clarity session here.
Practice the Yoga for Better Sleep program now, for a restful night's sleep.