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8 Yoga Poses to Try Tonight for Better Sleep

Having trouble sleeping lately? Try calming your body and mind with gentle yoga stretches. Here are the best yoga stretches for a good night's rest.

Caroline Igo Editor, Sleep
Caroline Igo (she/her/hers) is a wellness editor and holds Sleep Science Coach and Stress Management certificates from the Spencer Institute. She received her bachelor's degree in creative writing from Miami University and continues to further her craft in her free time. Before joining CNET, Caroline wrote for past CNN anchor, Daryn Kagan.
Expertise Sleep, mattress accessories, vitamins and supplements, nutrition & personal care Credentials
  • Carl R. Greer/Andrew D. Hepburn Award for Best Nonfiction Essay (Miami University, 2020)
Caroline Igo
Medically Reviewed
Reviewed by: Annie Miller Medical Reviewer
Annie Miller is a licensed psychotherapist in private practice in the Washington DC area. She is the owner and founder of DC Metro Sleep and Psychotherapy. Annie received her BA from the University of Pennsylvania and her MSW from the University of Chicago. Annie specializes in working with sleep disorders, chronic pain, and trauma. Annie uses a variety of evidence-based techniques including CBT-i for insomnia, EMDR for trauma, and PRain Reprocessing Therapy for chronic pain.
Expertise Sleep disorders, chronic pain, and trauma. Credentials
  • Licensed Psychotherapist
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  • University of Pennsylvania, BA
  • University of Chicago, MSW
4 min read
Woman practicing yoga before bed
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How often do you have trouble falling asleep at night because your mind is still racing from the day or worrying about the next? You aren't alone, and luckily, there are plenty of tricks that can help you fall asleep (such as reading, drinking a hot cup of herbal tea or journaling). But if those tips aren't enough, and you're still struggling to get some shut-eye, try practicing a few yoga poses to get to sleep.

For more natural ways to get better sleep, try these seven sleep aids for insomnia, or check out our sleep tips from CNET's wellness editors

Read more: Best Mattress

How yoga can help you sleep

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Yoga, much like any form of exercise, can be a beneficial way to unwind and alleviate stress. Research suggests that engaging in yoga may lead to reduced levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. However, the extent of cortisol reduction may vary depending on factors such as the frequency and intensity of yoga practice. Additionally, some studies have shown promising results regarding yoga's impact on depression symptoms. Yoga can complement traditional treatment approaches and promote overall well-being.
So, what does this mean for your sleep? Well, cortisol levels have a significant influence on sleep patterns. Higher cortisol levels are often associated with difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. A study conducted in 2019 found that incorporating yoga into one's routine can have a positive effect on treating and alleviating symptoms of insomnia. These findings suggest that practicing yoga may offer potential benefits for improving sleep quality and overall sleep health.

8 yoga poses to try before bed

Woman in child's pose on bedroom floor
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These poses are for any level of experience and easy enough for beginner yogis. While moving between these poses, remember to pay attention to your breath and where you feel most tension in your body. Breathe and try to relax if you experience any discomfort. Move through these poses for about 20 to 30 minutes before bed. 

Read more: Best Yoga Mats for 2024

Cat-cow pose

To get into this pose, start on your hands and knees. Your hands should be shoulder-width apart, and your knees should be below your hips. Take a deep breath and tilt your head towards the ceiling while also sticking up your pelvis -- this should mimic a "cow." Then, on your exhale, arch your back and bring both your head and pelvis down like a "cat." You can repeat these two motions a few times before moving on. 

Forward fold

This pose is as easy as standing up straight and leaning over to reach for your toes. If you are able, place your hands on the ground. If you are unable to touch your toes, you can do a half-forward fold and grab below your knees. Looking for a challenge? Try reaching around your ankles and hold. Make sure your back is straight and you are taking deep breaths.

Bridge pose

Start by lying down on your back, legs and arms stretched out and on the ground. Take a deep breath, raise your core off the ground and shift your arms closer to your body to balance. Your knees should be at a 90-degree angle. Your hands can lie flat, or you can bring them together underneath your core. 

Happy baby

An easy pose to transition into after Bridge -- start this pose on your back. Lift your legs to the ceiling and out a little past your shoulders (or however far you can go). Then, grab onto the outside of your feet with both hands. Gently rock left and right to relieve tension in your lower back. 

Legs-up-the-wall

You will need to clear a space beside a wall for this pose. Facing the wall, lie on your back and walk your legs up high or lift your hips with your arms. Your hips can be against the wall or a little away. Once you get in a comfortable spot and you feel like you can balance, stretch your arms out beside you. This pose is great for destressing and improving your circulation

Child's pose

You can start this pose by kneeling or getting on your hands and knees. Tuck your feet underneath your hips and bring your head close to the ground. Reach your hands out in front of you, stretching your spin. The further out you reach, the better the stretch will be for you. 

Seated twist

If you are coming out of Child's pose for this next one, sit back up and extend your legs out in front of you. Cross one leg over the other, pulling the heel of the crossed leg your outer thigh. With the opposite arm, cross your body and twist yourself, pushing with your elbow on the raised knee. Twist and breathe. Repeat with the other side before moving on. 

Butterfly pose

From a seated position, straighten your posture and press the bottom of both your feet together. Placing your hands on your feet, attempt to press your hips as low as you can to the ground. The lower you go, the bigger the stretch. If you are looking for more of a challenge, move your feet closer to your body. 

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.