7/12/2015 2 Comments yoga nightcapI often have trouble drifting of to sleep, it seems as soon as my head hits the pillow a light switch in my mind flicks on. Just as I want too snuggle under the rugs and be lulled into dreamland my mind wants to keep the lights on and continue working, thinking, planning and creating new ideas
I call this, my light switch moment, and sometimes it drives me nuts. I am pretty sure a light switch moment happens to us all . After a busy day it is sometimes very difficult to switch those light bulbs off and relax, even if we are exhausted and dead tired sleep seems to elude us. A Yoga night cap, a 15 to 20 minute yoga practice just before you go to bed is an excellent way to release any tension and great way to unwind and relax. These are a few of my favourite night time poses, they release tension in the hips and shoulders, bring about a sense of calmness and peace especially if you practice them with mindfulness and awareness Legs up the wall Childs pose Melting heart Sleeping Pigeon Reclined butterfly pose Savasana - Relaxation pose In all the poses consciously relax the muscles with every out breath Take time in every pose don't rush through the poses Meditate on the breath, or sensations within the body whilst you relax in every pose Practice in room that is warm, cosy and has diffused or soft lighting ( candles ) Play relaxing, soothing music to accompany your practice Use a eye pillow, filled with lavender and place over your eyes whilst resting in reclined butterfly, savasana or any of the reclined poses Use a bolster or pillow under the knees in savasana and place a blanket over you to keep you warm and toasty Go to bed after completing your yoga night cap and drift away into the serene world of slumber land Another little tip is to eat a handful of Walnuts before going to bed, walnuts contain Melatonin, an antioxidant that naturally occurs in the body that makes you feel drowsy at night. Walnuts are not my favourite nut but I found I can make them a little more palatable by dry roasting them in the oven at 160 degrees for about 20 minutes or so, you can also coat them lightly in salt or maple syrup just prior to roasting if you wish. Just keep an eye on them whilst roasting so they don't burn. Let me know how you go, leave any comments in the comment box below and if you have any tips on how to turn off the light switch at night, I would love to hear about them. Miles of Smiles Naomi
2 Comments
Emma B.
7/22/2015 04:25:16 am
My 'lightbulb moments have also been driving me nuts - till 3am most nights last week- might have to give this a try!
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naomi
7/22/2015 04:47:05 am
I look forward to hearing how it all goes, lets hope it results in lots of sweet dreams and contented sleep. Miles of Smiles Naomi
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