How Pilates Can Aid in Better Sleep

Having difficulty getting some shut-eye? Struggling with insomnia or frequent bouts of restlessness? You’re not alone, and luckily there are a number of remedies to help you get a better night’s rest. Among them is the popular physical exercise known as Pilates. This regime isn’t exclusive for fitness, it can also help you get the necessary z’s you need for a productive day. So how does Pilates help you sleep better?

The mental and physical stress that you experience from day to day can accumulate and affect your overall wellbeing. It’s difficult to relax and switch off when you face this every day. Pilates can help you build the strength, stretch and relaxation exercises needed to reduce stress and help you sleep better.

It’s also designed to help you identify and build up your core muscles, the muscles at the center of your body, while addressing any muscular imbalances you may have. It’s popular because it’s low impact but effective. With regular exercise, you’ll feel better, you’ll move better and, the best part, you’ll sleep better.

Benefits for Sleep

Pilates has a few distinct benefits that make it perfect for improving the quality of sleep. Firstly, it improves the quality of air in the body, meaning more oxygen for more relaxation. This is why backbends are recommended. It also creates strength through all parts of your body. This helps with common sleeping issues, such as the inability to fall asleep or waking you up multiple times in the night.

Tensed body parts can also cause restlessness. Pilates can help you strengthen targeted areas, as well as all parts of the body to support an overall sense of wellbeing. This can reduce the discomfort associated with daytime strains and help relax the body for a better night’s rest.

Techniques You Can Practice at Home

If the idea of attending Pilates classes is daunting to you, don’t worry. All you need is a yoga mat or large cushion, and you can perform some simple exercises in the privacy of your own home. Try exercise, like:

• Basic Pilates Breathing
• Cat/Cow Stretch
• Crescent Moon Sequence
• Bird/Dog Sequence
• Cricket Exercise

Get Professional Instruction

If it’s more convenient for you, there are certified professionals and Pilates instructors in and around Sydney. A mat class can help by providing you with direction and guidance to ensure you’re effectively using the proper techniques. There is also the option to get personalised instruction as well.

Having the right instructor will not only demonstrate the relevant exercises to improve your sleep; they can also offer modifications to ensure each practice suits your individual needs. For example, if you have any pre-existing injuries that require specific movements. Also, if improvement in your sleep is your main focus, you’ll be steered towards the best sleep-promoting movements.

Conclusion

Getting a better night’s rest does not have to be as difficult as it may seem. Pilates is a great tool for helping you on the path to much more restful sleep. With the right advice and practice, it can be even more effective. Consider giving Pilates a try and see the results for yourself.