The subtle movements of these yoga poses are not designed to get the blood pumping, rather, to get you into your body, clear your mind, and ease yourself into a great night’s sleep.
1. Cat and Cow Pose
Starting on your hands and knees, inhale deeply as you point your chin and tailbone to the ceiling, creating a hollow in your lower back in Cow pose. Flow into Cat pose by exhaling and bringing your chin to your chest and arching your spine. Move between these two poses for approximately one minute, feeling the shoulder blades pull apart and the vertebrae loosen with each inhale and exhale.
2. Child’s Pose
From your hands and keens, sink your tailbone back until it rests on your heels, bring your chest between your knees and rest your forehead on the mat. Walk your fingers forward until you can feel the stretch along your spine. Stay in this position and continue your deep breathing for as long as you need.
3. Legs up Against the Wall
This is a great pose for draining lymph nodes and lactic acid from the legs which may in turn reduce restless leg symptoms at night and reduce any pain in the feet from standing all day. Position your tailbone close to the wall and stretch your legs straight up, laying your arms out either side of you. Close your eyes and breathe deeply for a minute or two.
4. Supine Twist
The perfect pose for those who have sat at a desk all day, the supine twist helps to relax the neck, shoulders, and spine. Start by laying on your back on the floor in a cross shape, with arms stretched out either side of you, palms facing down. Bring both knees up to your chest and gradually lower them down to the left, while gently turning your head to the right. Return your head to neutral position, while bringing your knees back up again and then lower them to the right, while turning your head to the left. Try to time your inhales with raising the knees and exhales with lowering them.
5. Reclining Buddha
Laying on the mat, face up, bring the soles of your feet together while pulling the heels as close to your tailbone as you can. If you find that your knees need support, slip a cushion or book underneath them to ease the stretch from the pelvis. Place one hand on your heart and one on your belly to connect with the breath moving in and out of your body. Relax in this pose for as long as you feel comfortable.
6. Corpse Pose
Simply lay flat on the floor or bed, palms up, letting your feet fall outwards. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, trying to clear your mind of thoughts. You may find that you simply drift off at this stage, so make sure you are comfortable and in a good place for sleeping.
If you would like to find out more about how the REM-Fit Sleep 400 Mattress, REM-Fit Sleep Monitoringtechnology or Zeeq Smart Pillows can help you to get a better night’s rest, please get in touch with our experienced, knowledgeable staff by calling 020 8731 0020 or email us via sales@rem-fit.co.uk.
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