A proper workout, even doing yoga out before bed is about as unappealing an idea as getting a root canal. But what if we were to tell you that setting aside 8 minutes an evening to roll out your yoga mat in front of the tv and doing some extremely simple, low impact exercises that could potentially naturally improve your gut health, and help you sleep better, too!
So in addition to our Leslie's sophisticated digestion-aiding routine, this quick, easy and relaxing flow can be a magical addition to your nighttime pre-slumber practice.
Roll out your yoga mat, or opt for any other surface you'd like to get cozy on (you can even do this on your bed!)
Posture 1: Cat Cow
Get on your hands and knees into a tabletop position (make sure they are hip and shoulder-width apart) and then arch your back into a cat position, and slowly hunch it into cow position. Repeat for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Posture 2: Belly Lifts
Lay on your back and keep your knees bent with your legs lifted. Straighten your legs and then bend them back down again, then press them up once more. You should feel the pressure in your lower belly. Repeat for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Posture 3: Windmill
Staying on your back, keep your legs straight and in the air above you, and maneuver them in a circular motion, keeping your core engaged. Repeat for 30 seconds on one rotation, then rotate the other way for another 30 seconds.
Posture 4: Cobra
Get on your stomach with your legs outstretched behind you, and push your chest and torso up by your forearms to form a curve in your back. Hold for 30 seconds to a minute.
Posture 5: Twisted Root
Laying on your side, keep your bottom leg bent and over your flat leg. Turn your torso to face the other direction. Hold for 30 seconds and reposition to the other side, holding for another 30 seconds.
Rumor has it that turning this sequence of exercises into a routine regimen over a long period of time can manipulate *Gasp!* weight-loss during sleep, but truth be told, we're just into how it makes us feel.
Also, tried and tested, it does deliver a killer sleep.
Try it out and let us know what you think!
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