Insomnia can be a frustrating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. For some, a racing mind or tense body is the culprit behind their inability to fall asleep. That’s where progressive muscle relaxation comes in. This technique involves tensing and relaxing your muscles, starting with your toes and working your way up to the top of your head.
To practice progressive muscle relaxation, begin by lying on your back in bed in a comfortable position, with a pillow under your head or knees to relax your back. Rest your arms with palms up, slightly apart from your body. Take several slow, deep breaths through your nose, exhaling with a long sigh to release tension.
As you breathe softly, focus on each area of your body one at a time, starting with your toes and feet. Curl them up and arch them down while holding for just a moment before releasing the tension and letting them sink into the bed. Gradually move up to your calves, thighs, buttocks, lower back, abdomen, upper back, shoulders, arms, hands, neck