Dear Roopashee,
I used to be a heavy sleeper. However, post pregnancy, I am unable to sleep peacefully. I am always disturbed or stressed, often waking up in the middle of the night.
I tried yoga for 2 months but it didn't seem to help much. Because of this, I feel a lack of energy and focus in my daily activities.
Then one day, I crash and end up sleeping 8 to 10 hours at a stretch. I know it's not healthy but what can I do to improve and get better sleep?
Anvishka
Ans: It is common for new mothers to feel this way, since the body is recovering. Lack of sleep further builds stress and fatigue.
To begin with, you need to embrace lots of patience and start with the following measures:
1. Deep breathing and Anulom Vilom for 15 minutes every day; don’t do Kapalbhati as of now.
2. Om chanting for 15 minutes.
These will help reduce the anxiety; anxiety leads to lack of sleep and loss of energy.
Also, watch your food habits.
Try not to binge-eat or eat late at night as it aggravates anxiety and disturbs sleep.
Over consumption of tea and coffee hampers sleep in multiple ways.