5 Yoga Practices for Better Sleep

Sleep is one of the most important ways we can restore our body and mind, yet so many people struggle to drift off or stay asleep through the night. I’ve found yoga to be one of the most powerful natural remedies for improving sleep, not just for myself but also for many of my students. Yoga calms the nervous system, eases out tension, and helps to quiet the busy mind so you can fully relax.

Personally, I’ve noticed that when I practice yoga regularly, my body feels freer from aches and pains, and I fall asleep much more easily. My students love my Sleepy Yoga classes, which I offer as part of my online membership and as special Sleepy Yoga & Sound Bath events. Each session is designed to soothe the body, reset the nervous system, and prepare you for a deep, restful night’s sleep.

Five simple yoga practices to help you sleep better:

1. Gentle Forward Folds

Forward folds, such as Seated Forward Bend, calm the mind and stretch the back body, creating a sense of release.

2. Supported Child’s Pose

With a pillow or bolster under the chest, this restorative pose helps you feel safe, nurtured, and ready to let go.

3. Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani)

A favourite for soothing tired legs and calming the nervous system, this pose is ideal before bedtime.

4. Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana)

This pranayama practice balances the energy channels, clears the mind, and prepares you for rest.

5. Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep)

A guided meditation that helps you drift into a state of deep relaxation, often described as “conscious sleep.”

Sleepy Yoga: Your Invitation to Rest

If you struggle with sleep, incorporating these yoga practices into your evening routine can make a big difference. For extra support, you’re welcome to join my online Sleepy Yoga classes, where I upload a brand-new session each month. Or, come along to one of my Sleepy Yoga & Sound Bath events, where the soothing vibrations of crystal bowls deepen the relaxation experience.

Yoga isn’t just about movement — it’s about reconnecting with yourself, quieting the outside world, and giving your body and mind permission to rest.