Cracking insomnia

Insomnia is one of the most common health complaints, afflicting people of all ages and backgrounds. People with sleep problems often experience irritability, tension, helplessness, exhaustion and depression.

They have problems sleeping for many reasons: a too-high caffeine intake; anxiety or an inability to switch off; lack of exercise; an unbalanced lifestyle with unmanageable levels of stress.

Techniques for a sound sleep

The major pointers are:

• Yoga Nidra: literally translated as "sleep of the yogis" or described as "conscious sleep". Enthusiasts of Yoga Nidra claim it can replace up to three hours of normal sleep. While the practitioner remains awake, his mind is sent into a deep level of consciousness and awareness.
• Establish a regular evening yoga routine, focusing on soft, gentle asanas with plenty of stretching. Savasana and shoulder stand help relaxation.
• Establish a meditation routine to focus and still the mind – it doesn’t have to be long; ten minutes is fine.
• Go easy on heavy food. Eat lots of fruits, salads and soup – food that the body can deal with easily.
• Before going to bed, do a few mild stretches to release tension and help you relax. Ananda Balasana is a good choice as it releases stress from the lower back and hips.