Who doesn’t want a super-fast metabolism that lasts all day?
There are tons of great benefits to getting a great workout in the morning, but an evening sweat session is just as effective.
There is a common misconception that exercising before going to bed is not good.
Yes, vigorous exercises that will tire you out are bad because they increase your heart rate, activate your brain, and raise your body temperature, making it difficult for you to go to sleep.
But, certain less vigorous exercises will help you unwind. Low-intensity yoga is one such exercise, and it is perfect to practice before going to bed. Some of these moves combat restlessness and insomnia and help you sleep better. Check them out!
4-Minute No-Sweat Workout
How it works: Repeat this sequence twice.
20 seconds of elbow plank
20 seconds of right side plank
20 seconds of left side plank
20 squats
20 alternating lunges
20-second wall sit
2-Minute Yoga Sequence
A few seconds in the plank position with your arms straightened and back rounded, bend your right knee and bring it to the right shoulder. Open your right leg to the right side. Bring the right leg back up to Three-legged Downward Dog. Repeat on the other side. Repeat five times.
Bridge Pose
Lying on your back, bend knees and place both feet flat on the floor at hip-distance apart. Slide your arms out alongside… the body, with palms facing down. Press feet into the floor and lift hips up and clasp hands below the pelvis. Extend through the arms, lift chest up, and chin off chest. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds.
Reclining Bound Angle Pose
Lie with your back on pillows or a bolster to support the upper and middle back. Rest your head on a folded blanket.
Press the soles of your feet together and let the knees fall open to both sides. Pull shoulder blades gently inward and allow arms to relax at sides with palms facing up. Hold for 60 seconds.
These exercises are sure to help you unwind and relax for the night.
Now go get some sleep!
Jasmine Browley holds an MA in journalism from Columbia College Chicago, and has contributed to Ebony, Jet, and MADE Magazine among others. So, clearly, she knows some stuff. Follow her digital journey @JasmineBrowley.