RESOURCES

Bedtime Pranayama – Pranayama is a sanskrit term for "breath control." Using specific breath practices, we can activate the parasympathetic nervous system to calm the mind and body. 

The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), often called the “rest and digest” or “calm and connect” system, which allows us to recoup from the stressors of life. If you find yourself breathing slowly and deeply, feeling a sense of calm and peacefulness, your PNS is activated, enhancing digestion, increasing blood flow to the GI track, lowering the heart rate, and enhancing sexual arousal. This system also activates certain parts of the brain, dampening fear-response regions and increasing the reflective, responsive regions. The result? More reflective, conscious behavior and action; an increased feeling of calm; and greater mental flexibility and creativity amid life’s challenges.

Enjoy these specific pranayama practices nightly for a deep sleep:

• Chandra Bhedana - also called "left nostril breathing," activates the parasympathetic nervous system and aids in anxiety.
• Shabad Kriya - a Kundalini technique to promote deep sleep. Here is a terrific video from Julie Staples, PhD, demonstrating the Shabad Kriya >>