Turn off your phone

In today’s society, we are almost surgically attached to our phones, iPads, laptops, etc. And while the devices keep us informed and connected, they are also harm us when it comes to our sleep. Smartphones and other gadgets emit blue wavelengths. These wavelengths suppress the production of melatonin in our bodies. Melatonin is a natural hormone that makes you feel sleepy. Also, the light given off by your devices can actually stimulate the mind, thus causing poor sleep.

So as difficult as it may be, buy a regular alarm clock and turn off the phone.

Keep a sleep schedule

Sleep is just as important to proper health as eating healthy, wholesome foods; in other words, make sleep a priority. You don’t have to give up dinner with friends or that periodic concert, but staying out late every single night will eventually take its toll. Make a sleep schedule and do your best to stick to it.  Lack of sleep has been proven to increase blood pressure, depression, weight gain and stress.

Once you set your sleep schedule, your body will react favorably.

Meditation

How many of us groan when we hear the word “meditation”? Meditation really isn’t difficult but people constantly tell themselves it can’t be done because they can’t shut off their minds. What most people don’t realize, however, is that the goal of meditation is not turning off your mind or your thoughts; meditation helps you cope better while telling your sympathetic nervous system to relax. When the thoughts come in, you should acknowledge them but do not dwell on them. That’s what meditation helps you do.

There are many different types of meditation. For beginners, guided meditation tends to work best because you are listening to somebody guide you through the journey; I’m happy to suggest some guided meditation CDs for you.

Bedtime Yoga

Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that combines physical exercise, mental clarity and spiritual beliefs all rolled into one discipline. Bedtime yoga poses are very low-key and quite simple. Utilizing yoga just before going to bed can signal to your brain that slumber time is approaching. Poses such as forward bends, happy baby pose, cross-legged bends and corpse pose all have been shown to help the body prepare for restful sleep. (For those who are a little more skilled, inversion poses like shoulder stands can help alleviate stress and calm the mind).

Acupuncture

Stress creates imbalances. Acupuncture works with your own body to help bring it back into balance. Acupuncture needles are strategically placed on points that will calm the mind, balance hormones and settle the nervous system. Most people will notice some change after just one treatment, but to get the full effect and truly eliminate insomnia, you should commit to several treatments.

There are many other ways to fight insomnia, but these are some of the best. Give these five methods a try and then focus on the ones that resonate with you. Over time, your body and mind will thank you (and there won’t be any harsh side effects!)…just good sound sleep. Sweet dreams!

The post Five Ways to Alleviate Insomnia appeared first on Tybee Acupuncture.

1. Downward dog

In your yoga practice, downward dog can always be the home base pose. It is a staple that can be used in almost every yoga practice.

This pose focuses on the arms and shoulder meridians, which can improve heart and lung function. Increased function of these organs can help fight against allergies, viruses, anxiety and trouble sleeping.  Downward dog can also help digestion and allows for increased blood flow.

2. Warrior II

Warrior II focuses on the lymphatic system and the hips and knees. The emphasis on these joints are related to the gall bladder, spleen and stomach meridians. These organs help the lymphatic system by increasing digestion and immune fluid.

3. Wheel and other backbends

Wheel and other backbends can effectively and sometimes very intensely stretch the stomach and spleen meridians. This pose can help prevent your body from acid reflux, heartburn and other stomach issues.

4. Tree pose

Tree pose is a standard balancing pose that can be adapted based on your skill level. It focuses on the small intestine meridian and increases abdominal circulation. Tree pose can also calm and relax the mind and nervous system, bringing more self-awareness.

Contact me to learn more on how yoga and acupuncture can pair together and begin a path to better health!

Sources:

http://www.oceanflowyoga.co.uk/news/pose-of-the-month-vrksasana-tree-pose/

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-5679/4-Yoga-Poses-That-Pair-Perfectly-with-Acupuncture.html

http://www.yogaofenergyflow.com/about-2/meridian-yoga/

The post 4 Meridian Yoga Poses to go with Acupuncture appeared first on Tybee Acupuncture.