Yoga is widely known for its fitness benefits and stress reduction. Many people practice it in the morning to start the day with energy or clarity and some people practice it in the afternoon to wind down from the day. If you suffer from insomnia or if you can't seem to fall asleep, several yoga poses may help. Pay special attention to how your body feels. If something feels uncomfortable or painful, discontinue the pose.
Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
Go into push up position, keeping hands and feet hips-width apart. Push your hips up while stretching your arms. Your posture should resemble an upside-down "V". Keep your legs straight while pushing your heels toward the floor. Keep your head in line with your spine and point the top of your head straight down toward the floor.
Child Pose (Balasana)
Get down on all fours (hands and knees on the floor). Sit back slowly, bringing your tailbone down toward your heels. You should feel a gentle stretch in the knees. Using a yoga block or a rolled blanket under your tailbone reduces the pressure on your knees. Repeat three times.
Corpse Pose (Savasana)
Although the name is somewhat morbid, it does give you a good idea of what the pose should look like. This pose is helpful to release tension from the body and is often used a warm-up. Start by lying flat on your back. Let the tension fall out of your muscles. Rest your arms at your sides, palms down. Turn your knees out slightly or just slightly bend your knees with your feet flat on the floor. Breathe in and out for five seconds to release additional tension. Repeat 5 to 10 times.
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