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    A Ritual for Rest: How Stretching Before Bed Can Improve Sleep

    by McKenzie Dillon Nov 14, 2019 3 minutes
    A Ritual for Rest: How Stretching Before Bed Can Improve Sleep, by McKenzie Dillon. Photograph of woman's arms by Houcine Ncib
    Photograph by Houcine Ncib

    Gentle, yoga-inspired stretching can calm your nervous system and relax your muscles, preparing you for a longer and more restorative sleep

    —

    You can probably relate to that frustrating feeling when you’re lying awake in your bed for what seems like hours — and sometimes it actually is a few hours — but you can’t seem to fall asleep due to lingering thoughts that wander from the back of your mind, or restless muscles that can’t seem to loosen up. That’s why it’s important to practice a peaceful nighttime routine — to allow both your body and mind to wind down in preparation for a restful night of sleep. 

    Why Should You Stretch Before Bed?

    Popular pre-sleep practices include turning off all electronics, making yourself a calming cup of chamomile tea, running a warm

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