Falling asleep in peace, doesn’t that sound wonderful? If this piques your interest, keep reading. Over a five-part series, I will lay out a few very simple and easy-to-remember practices you can incorporate into your nightly routine to create a more relaxed state-of-being.

Not only may you experience a more intentional and serene nightly routine, but you may also find that your dream state improves, you experience a more restful sleep and wake up looking forward to your day ahead. Your subconscious will be tuned into the life you desire and will draw people, places, things, and experiences to you through inspired action. You will find yourself in the sweet spot of effortless action!

 

 

Nighttime Practices

Over the course of this five-part series, I will cover the following practices that I enjoy as a part of my (mostly) nightly routine.

Practice #1: Alternate Nostril Breathing

Practice #2: Full Body Mental Relaxation

Practice #3: Gratitude & Forgiveness

Practice #4: Revise The Day

Practice #5: Imagination & Manifestation

Creating the habit of remembering to perform the nightly practice(s) is the most challenging part – as is true for any new habit. Once you begin to realize the benefits and shifts from the inside out, it becomes easier to prioritize your new practice(s). You may find yourself unwilling to miss your practice. Until then, a little note on your nightstand or next to your bed in the beginning may serve as an effective reminder to remember the practice. Find what works best for you.

 

How-To

Practice #1: Alternate Nostril Breathing

**CONTRAINDICATIONS: While this is a very gentle breathing practice, please use your discernment and listen to your body and only do what feels right for you. You are responsible for your health and well-being.

Let’s begin. Using your dominant hand:

• Sit in a comfortable position (may also be done lying flat on your back), spine straight, and allow the tension in your body and mind to melt away.
• Take several deep breaths, allowing the inhales and exhales to lengthen as your body relaxes.
• Now close your eyes or keep them open – decide which is right for you based on your current environment.
• With your dominant hand, place index and middle finger at third eye point. Allow your remaining fingers and thumb to rest on each side of your nostrils.
• Gently close the right nostril (with thumb or fingers) and inhale through the left nostril. Feel the air flowing in, stay present with the breath. At the top of the breath, close left nostril (with thumb or fingers), unblock right nostril, and exhale through the right nostril. Again focus on the feeling of the breath exiting your nostril. 
• Keeping left nostril closed, now inhale through the right nostril. Feel the air flowing in, stay present with the breath. At the top of the breath, close right nostril (with thumb or fingers), unblock left nostril and exhale through the left nostril. Again focus on the feeling of the breath exiting your nostril. This is one round.
• The breaths are slow and calm. Find your own pace. Keep your focus on the breath as it moves in and out, this focus helps anchor you into the present moment.
• Repeat for 10 rounds.
• Enjoy the balanced and relaxed breath.
• Lay down (if not already) and continue to relax as you drift into sleep.

Mental Alternate Nostril Breathing:  Instead of using your hand to open and close your nostrils, simply use the power of your mind to inhale/exhale, alternating between each nostril. This may be helpful when you feel guided to practice but would prefer to be more discreet in your breathing technique, or when you no longer feel the need to use your hand for assistance.

The state of mind in which you fall asleep is directly tied to your state of mind upon waking each morning. More simply stated, how you fall asleep is how you wake up.

When you consciously choose to put yourself into a relaxed and peaceful state each night, you are also consciously selecting a more intentional start to your morning. Incorporating this practice alone is a game changer and creates the opportunity for magical moments in your waking hours. You may notice increased synchronicities and/or letting go of patterns that no longer serve you.

Stay tuned for my next post in the series that covers another simple nightly exercise, Practice #2: Full Body Mental Relaxation. Prioritizing self-care at the end of our day is an act of self-love. You are 100% worthy and deserving of all of it. Fill your cup first, then serve others. Show up as the highest version of you and the world around you will change.

Stack the practices to build a deeper sense of peace and relaxation.

Until next time.

Much love,

Anne

 

Disclaimer: All content and information on this website is for informational and educational purposes only, does not constitute professional or medical advice. Although we strive to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for any kind of professional advice, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in the area for your particular needs and circumstances prior to making any professional, legal, and health related decisions.

Images courtesy of Elevae Visuals (formerly Social Squares)

Published Date: 7/12/2023