Can’t fall asleep no matter how tired you feel?
Try these bed time routines that will relieve tension from your busy mind and will relax you to sleep.
Progressive muscle relaxation.Tensing and relaxing specific muscle groups can actually help you relax while being awake. Find a comfortable position, close your eyes and let your body loose. First focus on your lower legs, for example, your toes. Next, Inhale and squeeze your toes for 10- 20 seconds. Then exhale and release tension. Rest for 10 seconds and work your way up to your upper legs, chest, neck, face and head.
Abdominal breathing. Lay on your belly, find your happy place and just take slow deep breaths that fill your belly. Do so for 2 minutes or more. This breathing exercise balances the nervous system and helps to release tension and anxiety.
Mindfulness meditation. There is a lot of fuss lately around meditation. It is rather simpler than it sounds. Find a comfortable position, close your eyes and just pay attention to your breath. If your mind wonders, refocus on your breath.
Originally published at medium.com