A little bit of meditation can go a long way towards sleeping better at night.

DID YOU KNOW? . .

Meditation Improves Quality of Sleep

During daily activities our brain functions at it’s three highest frequencies. The gamma (32-100 Hz) and beta (13-32 Hz) frequencies support cognitive thinking, problem solving, and alertness. Alpha (8-13 Hz) waves reflect our physical and mental relaxed state. The two lower frequencies are theta (4-8 Hz) and delta (0.5-4 Hz) frequencies. These are states of reduced consciousness, deep meditation, and dreaming. This is also when the mind is creative and receives insight. The deep state of delta is when the body is in repair and in a dreamless state.

People suffering from insomnia have a difficult time progressing through the alpha - theta - delta  transition. Instead of reaching for a sleep aid, or tossing and turning, begin the practice of preparing your body for sleep. When a cycle is disrupted over time it needs reminders and prompts to correct it. Start by removing all external distractions and stimuli. Turn off the t.v. and soften the lighting. Put all of the day’s work aside. Begin by using deep rhythmic  breathing and/ music  to bring the mind to a place of restful calm. Drumming and water sounds are great aids.  This helps the brain to release its natural sleep hormones and relaxes the muscles. Give yourself enough time for quality sleep that will allow for reaching the delta state of repair. Try to go to bed at the same time each night to reinforce the new sleep cycle.

Although it may seem difficult at first the more the brain becomes aware of this transition the easier it will become to reach the delta state. Sleep will come easily and staying asleep more frequently. Remember that each day is a new day to tackle the tasks at hand. Turning off the worries/tasks of today and setting them aside gives your body and mind the rest it needs to address them the next day. They will be there whether you get good sleep or not. So allow your mind to let go.  Many insights and problem-solving comes during our sleep state. So let your sleep be for the purpose of renewal, refreshment, and vitality.  Let your dreams awaken your creativity.

Dulce somnii . . .

Sweet Dreams . . .