According to the research, yoga increased total sleep time by nearly two hours and cut down the time spent awake after falling asleep by almost an hour. That’s a serious upgrade for your sleep routine.
Dr. Greg Elder, sleep expert from Northumbria University, explains:
“Exercise can have a direct impact on our brain activity during sleep, increasing slow-wave sleep—the deep, restorative kind—and boosting total sleep time. This means better, longer sleep.”
Four Workouts That Can Help You Snooze Better
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Aerobic Exercise
Think running, cycling, or any workout that gets your heart and breathing up. Aerobic exercise helps you fall asleep faster by lowering blood pressure and reducing stress. Just make sure to finish your sweat session 5-6 hours before bedtime—and avoid late-night HIIT workouts unless you want to lie awake wondering if your heart’s about to explode. -
Strength Training
Lifting weights or using resistance bands can also improve sleep quality. Plus, you get stronger, which is a win-win. -
Yoga
Stretching, deep breathing, and mindfulness combine to relax your nervous system and ease stress. No wonder it’s the top sleep booster. -
Walking
A simple brisk walk in fresh air works wonders too. It reduces stress and anxiety, lowers cortisol (your stress hormone), and calms your mind before bed.
If sleep feels like an uphill battle, try swapping in some of these exercises. Whether it’s calming yoga or a quick evening stroll, a little movement might be all you need to say goodbye to restless nights.
Source: The Independent
