Restorative Yoga Practice for Insomnia
We have all experienced times of restless, even sleepless nights. Whether momentary or chronic Insomnia – Restorative Yoga Postures can support you into deep sleep.
We live in an Elastic Band Culture. Most of are in full on action mode – until we reach complete exhaustion – at which point we swing directly into a crash mode. Sound familiar?
One of the many symptoms that can arise from this pace is disrupted sleep patterns naturally accompanied by an over active mind, tension in the body, or heightened emotional responses – all of which can interfere with our capacity to sleep with ease.
Setting aside time for REST (reduced external stimuli time) – often confused with sleep – is a highly effective remedy. Creating space to slow down, and calm our overloaded systems is essential for a regulated, healthy, balanced system.
Restorative Yoga is a space of REST. Simple, subtle, supported postures induce natural states of relaxation, while simultaneously restoring the systems of the body (nervous system, organ, endocrine, digestive and so on) preparing us to shift into sleep with more ease.
If your interest is peaked, we suggest checking out these postures. Like any therapeutic tool, it is ideal to be consistent with the exploration . Try one every evening for 10-20 minutes.
Waterfall – Legs Elevated Up the Wall
Gentle inversions initiate a state of relaxation by returning the fluid body, the breath, and awareness inward and toward the centre of body. With the legs and pelvis elevated, blood flow moves up to the brain, quieting the mind and giving the heart an opportunity rest. Alleviating the systemic effects of stress by slowing down as we shift from sympathetic (action) to parasympathetic (rest) – allows the body to settle and restore.
Props: Essential: 2 blankets (cotton or wool), an eye pillow, chip foam block
Optional: 10 pound sandbag, strap, bolster (prana or rectangle) **Always experience the height of all props, it is a very individual experience.
