You’re wiped. But why, SERIOUSLY why, is it always the night when you’re beyond sleep-deprived that you can’t actually get to sleep?
Getting our Z's at night is vital for us mamas, both for our skin and not least or sanity, but sometimes this can be easier said than done.
But here is some good news if you spend your nights tossing and turning: This clever trick might be your ticket to falling asleep in no time at all - no prescriptions or night-cap required.
The exercise is called the 4-7-8 technique, and well-known American medical doctor, teacher, and author on holistic health, Dr. Andrew Weil, calls it a "natural tranquilizer for the nervous system."
Study after study has linked meditation to lowered stress-levels, and this easy-to-follow exercise will help you reap some of the de-stressing benefits that come along with consistent meditation practice.
Beyond bedtime, Dr. Weil recommends performing this exercise whenever dealing with a stressful situation. This is what he says: "The next time you can't curb sugar cravings, get into a fight with your partner, or can't hit the hay because you're overwhelmed, try it out for yourself. You'll start feeling more relaxed immediately."
Sounds good to us!
Here's how to do it:
1. Place the tip of your tongue against the ridge of tissue just behind your upper front teeth, and keep it there through the entire exercise.
2. Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound.
3. Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count of four.
4. Hold your breath for a count of seven.
5. Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound to a count of eight.
6. This is one breath. Now inhale again and repeat three more times for a total of four cycles.
Now, who's up for an early night tonight?!
