3 Bedtime Yoga Stretches to Prep Your Mind and Body for Better Sleep

From sleeping with socks on to diffusing essential oils and even drinking boiled lettuce water (yes, this is a thing), you may have tried everything to help improve your sleep and yet nothing has worked. So, what’s the deal?

Well, considering the average person spends an average of 13 hours a day sitting in front of a computer, in the car, on the couch or at the dining table, it’s no surprise you feel restless and unable to relax by the time bedtime rolls around. Your muscles could be lacking the proper circulation needed to relax after a stressful day.

This is where bedtime stretches come into play. According to head trainer at reformer Pilates studio Love Athletica, Abby Smith, stretching before bed is one of the best ways to release built-up tension so you can get quality snooze.

“It not only relaxes you but it also keeps your muscles flexible so you're less likely to experience delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) the following day as you carry out normal daily activities,” Smith tells Bed Threads Journal. “Additionally, developing an evening stretching routine and even practicing purposeful breathing helps your body to enter a parasympathetic state (responsible for the body’s rest and digestion system) more quickly and stay in a deeper sleep for longer.”

Studies have proven practices like yoga and stretching can be meditative, allowing you to focus on your body and present actions so you can switch off from the day’s stresses. Moreover, other studies have shown regular mindful stretching can even reduce signs of ageing. Sold? Here are three bedtime stretches Smith recommends you start doing tonight to prep your mind, body and soul for improved sleep and overall wellbeing.