5 Easy Yoga Poses To Do Before Bed

Yoga is a great way to relax and wind down after a long day, and can be particularly beneficial in helping you get a good night's sleep. As part of Stress Awareness Month, we'll be exploring 5 wind down yoga poses that you can incorporate into your evening routine to let go of the day and have a restful night's sleep.

Child's Pose

Child's Pose is a gentle and calming pose that helps to relieve stress and tension in the body, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and back.

To do Child's Pose, start by kneeling on the floor with your toes touching and your knees hip-width apart. Lower your hips towards your heels and stretch your arms out in front of you, placing your forehead on the floor. Hold this pose for 5-10 breaths, focusing on relaxing your body and letting go of any tension.

Cat/Cow Pose

Cat/Cow Pose is a gentle, flowing movement that helps to release tension in the spine and improve circulation.

To do Cat/Cow Pose, start on your hands and knees with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. As you inhale, arch your back and lift your head towards the ceiling (Cow Pose). As you exhale, round your spine and bring your chin towards your chest (Cat Pose). Repeat this movement for 5-10 breaths, moving slowly and focusing on your breath.

Legs up the Wall Pose

Legs up the Wall Pose is a restorative pose that helps to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation.

To do Legs up the Wall Pose, start by sitting with your left side against a wall. Slowly lie down on your back and swing your legs up the wall, so that your hips are as close to the wall as possible. Place your arms by your sides and close your eyes, focusing on your breath. Hold this pose for 5-10 minutes, or as long as you like.

Forward Fold

Forward Fold is a gentle, calming pose that helps to relieve tension in the back, neck, and shoulders.

To do Forward Fold, stand with your feet hip-width apart and slowly fold forward, bringing your hands to the ground or holding onto your shins. Let your head hang heavy and focus on relaxing your neck and shoulders. Hold this pose for 5-10 breaths, and slowly come up to standing.

Corpse Pose

Corpse Pose is a restorative pose that helps to calm the mind and promote deep relaxation.

To do Corpse Pose, lie on your back with your arms by your sides and your legs straight. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, allowing your body to sink into the ground. Hold this pose for 5-10 minutes, or as long as you like.

These 5 wind down yoga poses are a great way to relax and unwind after a long day, and can help you get a restful night's sleep. Remember to focus on your breath and listen to your body, moving slowly and gently through each pose. With consistent practice, you'll find that these poses become a powerful tool in your sleep routine. Try these poses before your night time meditation practice to help you unwind.

Looking for some soothing sounds to accompany your evening yoga practice? Checkout our curated yin and meditation playlists on Spotify to help set the scene.