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Yoga Moves to Help You Snooze

By: Kate Hanley

If you spend more time in bed tossing and turning than sleeping, you are by no means alone: One out of three people experiences insomnia at some point. With all the stress and stimulation in our busy world, it's no surprise that we have problems winding down. "Our nervous systems are under assault all the time," explains Ann Dyer, yoga teacher and expert on the DVD, zYoga, The Yoga Sleep Ritual. "We rarely have the opportunity to quiet the nervous system, which is what you need to sleep."

The good news is that just 10 minutes of simple yoga poses can help send you off to dreamland. Below are three yoga poses that Dyer recommends for their ability to soothe jangled nerves and help you rest. "Even I am continually amazed at how immediately and effectively yoga improves sleep," she says.

Supported Downward Dog
This yoga pose stretches your spine as it relaxes your mind. "Resting your head on something helps the brain turn off," Dyer says.

Where to do it: Anywhere you have four feet or so of clear floor space. Wood floors or wall-to-wall carpet are better than a throw rug, which could slide.

What you'll need: A yoga block, a short stack of books or a rolled up blanket

How to do it: Start on your hands and knees with your block under your chest. Walk your hands forward about 6 inches, then tuck your toes under and straighten your legs. Relax your neck and let your head rest on your block. "Keep the spine long and keep shifting your weight back onto your heels," Dyer advises. 

How long: One minute or 10 slow, deep breaths

 

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