Photo by Carl Barcelo on Unsplash

 

Yoga is widely known as one of the best exercises to keep your mind and body in tune with one another. Many people don’t think of it as a way to help you get a good night’s sleep, but yoga is actually a fantastic way to help you stretch, relax, and mentally prepare yourself for the days ahead. 

 

Yoga can also increase blood flow to the brain, release muscle tension, and help stimulate a mind-muscle connection. Just a few minutes of yoga before bed gives you the opportunity to practice daily mindfulness and meditation, both of which can have a significant impact on your overall mental health and well-being. 

 

Interested in taking up yoga to relax before hitting the hay? Here are some of the best yoga poses to do before bed to keep your body (and mind) healthy and in tune with one another. 

 

Wide-Legged Forward Bend

The wide-legged forward bend is a great yoga pose that can strengthen your hamstrings, lower back, hips, spine, and calves. To perform this pose, stand upright with your feet in a wide stance, and bend over at your hips. Bring your palms to the ground and soften your knees if it feels comfortable. Focus on your breathing, and roll back into a standing position once you feel comfortable. 

Head to Knee

The head to knee pose is known to help ease digestion and stretch your core. To do this pose, sit on the floor with one leg straight in front of you and the other bent open, with one foot touching your thigh. Bend your torso forward, being sure to keep your spine straight to lengthen it. Breathe in and out, and relax from the position once you feel comfortable. 

Locust Pose

The locust pose is a classic yoga move that stretches your spine and abdominal region. To perform this pose, lie on your stomach with your arms at your side. Lift your chest, maintaining a neutral head position and hold for 10-15 breaths, repeating as many times as you would like. 

 

Relaxing yoga is a great way to get yourself ready for a good night’s sleep, both mentally and physically. It releases tension in the muscles and can help you stay in tune with your body, both of which can lead to better sleep and an increased feeling of overall wellness. 

 

For a complete list of the best yoga poses to do before bed, check out the infographic below.

 

 

 

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