Tag Archives: sleep

Natural Remedy for Sleep

Here is a natural remedy for sleep that has no negative side effects, is not addictive (at least not in a negative way), and requires no fancy equipment or training.

Constructive Rest Pose is said to be the equivalent to 2 hours of sleep when held for 10 minutes. Give this a try when you’ve had a rough night’s sleep, when you are having trouble falling asleep, or as a part of your every day routine to feel more rested, focused, and alert. If you notice midafternoon fatigue use 5-10 minutes of your lunch break to practice constructive rest pose.

How to do it:

 

Lay on a flat surface with your knees bent. Bring your feet out about shoulder width apart. Turn your toes in (slightly pigeon toed) If there is any discomfort in your lower back walk your feet either further away from your body or closer to your body depending on what feels better to you. Slide your shoulders down away from your ears and rest with your arms at your sides just far enough away from your body so that your palms can comfortably rest racing up. Slide your chin slightly towards your chest to lengthen the back of the neck. Close your eyes and practice deep breathing for 5-10 minutes.

To come out of the pose:

Take a stretch if you feel its needed. Protect your back and roll onto your side. Rest for a moment on your side if you aren’t fully alert and when ready press yourself back to a seated posture.

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Natural Medicine Cabinet Essential For Sleep

I thought about what would be most appropriate for a natural medicine cabinet in regards to the current season and this is what I came up with… While there are many great products designed to give you a better night’s sleep usually a lack of sleep is your body’s way of letting you know something is amiss. How many times have you tossed and turned because of a problem at work, a fight with a friend, over indulging in food or drink? Lack of sleep can also be a sign of hormonal imbalances as well and are often seen in correlation with hot flashes.

The natural medicine cabinet essential this week is not another thing you need. The ultimate essential for sleep is paying attention to what your body needs. We live in a society that greatly ignores our natural cycles whether it be our seasons, menstrual cycles or sleep patterns.

According to Chinese Medicine the fall and winter are a time of moving inward. The energy that was so light and abundant during the summer months is now deeper and condensed. This is an appropriate time to pay attention to what your body needs. If you are feeling tired go to bed earlier. It is a natural part of the seasons now to hibernate. Take advantage of it!

The time change especially now when it seems like life is covered in darkness (i.e. leaving for work in the dark and coming home in the dark) is a great time to ditch the clock. If you are like me and revolve around a bed time let go of your normal routines. Get off the computer, turn off the TV and enjoy some quiet time or conversation. Its easier to listen to your body when you are not sucked into a lot of mental stimulation. This might not be a realistic daily routine and that’s ok too! Aim for one day a week to enjoy some quiet time and indulge in rest.

Check back tomorrow for a yoga nidra (sleep) meditation and Thursday for a Natural Remedy that is the equivalent to 2 hours of sleep!