How to Improve Sleep With Ayurveda

Sleep is one of the most important aspects of life since it restores and renews the body. Without sleep, organs deteriorate at a rapid pace, and the mind loses its acuity. Unfortunately, many people struggle to achieve a truly restful sleep. If you're experiencing difficulty sleeping, consider following Ayurvedic principles known to improve sleep.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Create an optimal sleeping environment in your bedroom by using room-darkening shades and dim lighting. Place lavender sachets in your room to encourage sleep. Alternatively, boil sleep-inducing Ayurvedic oils.
2. Schedule your dinner for early in the evening. A dinner between 6 and 7 p.m. is less likely to interfere with your sleep. Keep dinners light and free of strong spices.
3. Attempt to set a regular bedtime before 10 p.m. or about 3 hours after the sun sets. Wake about an hour before the sun rises.
4. Massage your feet, hands and neck before going to sleep. Brush or comb your hair to lightly stimulate your scalp.
5. Sleep in comfortable fabrics such as cotton.
6. Drink a cup of tea before going to sleep. Make your tea with sleep-inducing herbs such as chamomile and lemon balm.
7. Breath deeply through your nose. Hold your breath for a few seconds, and then exhale through your mouth. Focus on your breaths and visualize yourself in a relaxing place as you fall asleep.

Tips & Warnings

• Engage in some form of exercise on a daily basis.
• Try taking a warm bath before going to sleep.
• Don't exercise within 2 hours of going to sleep.
• Don't smoke or drink alcohol, especially right before bed.
• Refrain from drinking coffee or other stimulants close to bedtime.
• Avoid doing work in your bedroom.
• Refrain from sleeping during the day unless you have done hard physical labor.