Life

10 Stretches That Help You Sleep

In a world where everyone is always on the go, sleep is hard to come by. This is why it is worth looking into bedtime yoga and practicing stretches that help you sleep. Each move focuses on calming your body and mind, promoting a night of quality rest and relaxation.

Adequate sleep also happens to be the secret for channeling your inner bosslady. Sure, it might seem like the most productive people never take it slow. It might also look like they never sleep a wink. This is the farthest thing from the truth, though. Detaching from work is essential for getting a good night’s rest. Sleep is the body’s chance to recharge and recover. It is vital for taking on responsibilities and staying motivated.

Ultimately, stretching before bedtime will promote the best sleep possible. It will aid your mental health by helping you take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. From a physical standpoint, bedtime yoga also relieves tension within your body. It specifically benefits common issues such as sore muscles, back issues, and achy joints.

Ready to stretch your way into an awesome night of sleep? Brew yourself a cup of chamomile tea and check out these 10 super relaxing yoga routines. Time to get your snooze on, people.

1. Sleepy Time Stretches

If you're new to stretching and yoga, start off with this quick exercise by Kristen of K's Perfect Fitness TV. The video is less than four minutes long and features a simple sequence of stretches to promote sleepiness. Don't forget to take Kristen's advice and perform this routine on the floor with a mat or towel.

2. 10-Minute Bedtime Yoga

For another short sequence, check out this 10-minute video by Yoga with Katie. It begins with a guided release of mental and physical tension followed by breathing exercises. Thanks to the gentle stretches, you'll be ready to snooze the night away.

3. Easy Bedtime Yoga

For a sequence that can be done in your own bed, check out this five-minute video by Boho Beautiful. The routine focuses on basic moves that are designed to ease tension in your hips, back, and shoulders. To top it off, the moves will treat your joints and spine to an amazing massage.

4. Three Yoga Poses for Better Sleep

Sometimes, all you need is a few stretches to kick insomnia to the curb. This is where Sarah Beth Yoga comes in. Her short and sweet video features beginner-friendly poses with breathing tips for relaxation.

5. 20-Minute Bedtime Yoga for Hips & Low Back

Working long hours at any job can take a toll on the body. This is true whether you're sitting at a computer all day or serving tables at a restaurant. Give your body a break with this 20-minute bedtime relaxation video by Sarah Beth Yoga. The stretches focus on releasing tension from your hips and lower back, letting your body loosen up and chill out.

6. Yoga for Bedtime

Adriene Mishler is one of my favorite YouTube yogis and bedtime is one of my favorite parts of the day. The two come together in this soft 20-minute flow designed to help you unwind after work or school. See you later, stressful vibes.

7. Bedtime Yoga Sequence

Looking for more? Adriene has a second sleep-inducing routine that runs for a whopping 36 minutes long. This one is especially excellent for easing anxiety. The stretches will help calm your mind and body, prepping you for a night of quality sleep.

8. 20-Minute Calming & Relaxing Night Time Flow

In this 20-minute video by Yoga TX, yoga instructor Cole leads you through a beginner-friendly routine for winding down at night. The moves stretch your entire body while improving flexibility. Cole also describes the sequence as a way of showing your body some love. Awesome.

9. 12-Minute Yoga in Bed to Unwind

Here's another bed sequence for those of you who want to stay in your safe space. In 12 minutes, Candace of Yoga by Candace demonstrates how to breathe in a way that clears your mind. She helps you release tension from your entire body, starting at your head and working down to your legs. I highly recommend this one if you've been looking into practicing meditation.

10. 30-Minute Yoga Sequence for Sleep

For a sequence that has more depth and movement, turn to this 30-minute yoga class by Brett Larkin Yoga. It covers everything from side stretches to gentle body twists to calm your muscles in the best way.

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