Ayurveda for better sleep

According to the Ayurvedic Consultant at Ayurvedic Singapore, the hours leading up to bedtime are considered sacred and should be dedicated to self-care and relaxation

In the ancient science of Ayurveda, sleep is considered an essential pillar of overall health and well-being. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Director and Principal Ayruvedic Consultant says that a restful night’s sleep is crucial for the body to rejuvenate and repair itself. “It is during sleep that the body’s natural healing processes are activated, allowing for the restoration of balance and harmony. Lack of sleep can create various health issues, including fatigue, irritability, and reduced cognitive function,” says the Ayurveda Consultant at Ayurveda Singapore.

The Ayurvedic Consultant at Ayurvedic Singapore says that in Ayurveda, sleep is governed by the Vata dosha, which is responsible for movement and activity in the body. “When Vata is imbalanced, it can manifest as insomnia, restlessness, or difficulty falling asleep. Therefore, maintaining a balanced Vata dosha is key to promoting a peaceful and restorative sleep,” says the Ayurveda practitioner.

Ayurvedic rituals for a peaceful bedtime routine

According to the Ayurvedic Consultant at Ayurvedic Singapore, the hours leading up to bedtime are considered sacred and should be dedicated to self-care and relaxation. “By incorporating Ayurvedic rituals into your bedtime routine, you can create a calming ambience that prepares your body and mind for sleep,” he says.

One such ritual is Abhyanga, the practice of self-massage using warm herbal oils. This ritual not only nourishes the skin but also helps to calm the mind and relax the body, says the Ayurveda Consultant at Ayurveda Singapore.  Another Ayurvedic ritual to incorporate into your bedtime routine is the practice of Pranayama or controlled breathing exercises. 

Ayurvedic herbs for promoting sleep

According to the Ayurvedic Consultant at Ayurvedic Singapore various herbs and essential oils are good in promoting a good night’s sleep. These natural herbs work to calm the mind, relax the body, and support the natural sleep cycle.

Ayurvedic dietary recommendations for better sleep

Ayurveda Consultant at Ayurveda Singapore says that diet plays a crucial role in promoting a restful sleep. “One important dietary principle in Ayurveda is to have your largest meal at lunchtime and a lighter meal in the evening. This allows your body to digest the food before bedtime, preventing indigestion and promoting a deeper sleep. Avoid heavy, greasy, and spicy foods in the evening, as these can disrupt digestion and make it difficult to fall asleep.”

Another dietary recommendation is to consume warm, suggested by nourishing foods in the evening. Incorporate foods such as cooked vegetables, grains, and soups into your dinner to promote grounding and relaxation. Avoid stimulating foods and drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol, as they interfere with your sleep cycle.

Additionally, Ayurveda recommends consuming a small cup of warm milk before bed. Tryptophan in milk is an amino acid that helps promote the production of serotonin and melatonin, hormones that regulate sleep. Adding a pinch of cardamom to the milk can further enhance its sleep-inducing properties.

Ayurvedic lifestyle tips for sound sleep

According to the Ayurvedic Consultant at Ayurvedic Singapore, one important lifestyle tip is to establish a regular sleep-wake cycle. Going to bed and getting up at the same time daily helps to regulate the body’s internal clock and promote a more restful sleep. Avoid staying up late or sleeping more on weekends, as it will hamper your sleep schedule and make it harder to fall asleep, adds the Ayurveda Consultant at Ayurveda Singapore.

Another lifestyle tip is to engage in regular exercise, preferably in the morning or early evening. “Exercise helps to release accumulated stress and tension in the body, promoting a deeper and more restorative sleep. Choose activities such as walking, jogging, or yoga, and do at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day,” says the Ayurveda Consultant at Ayurveda Singapore.

A good night’s sleep is not a luxury; it is a vital component of a healthy and fulfilling life. So, take the time to nurture yourself and prioritize your sleep, concludes the Ayurveda Consultant at Ayurveda Singapore.