Did you get a good night’s sleep? Sleep is an integral part of holistic health, yet according to the National Institutes of Health, an estimated 50-70 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders.
In our fast-paced world, losing sleep may not seem like a big deal. For many people, it is common practice to work late or pull all-nighters. Some higher education institutions and workplaces embrace burnout culture, even praising people for prioritizing work over health. However, studies have shown that sleep deficiencies are linked to chronic health problems such as heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and depression. These health imbalances further promote disordered sleep, feeding into a vicious cycle of unrest.
The good news is Yoga Therapy can be an effective treatment modality for sleep disorders. Studies have shown that people who practice yoga regularly have improved quality and quantity of sleep. Yoga Therapy provides individualized tools that promote the parasympathetic nervous system and induce the body’s relaxation response. Yoga postures, breath control, meditation, and relaxation support the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Additionally, a Yoga Therapist can provide insight into causative factors to avoid and help you design an appropriate bedtime routine.
Ali Kamas is a Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT) specializing in Yoga Therapy for Deep Sleep. Ali’s own journey with yoga therapy began when she encountered a health crisis that left her searching for answers. Working with a Yoga Therapist, she witnessed a remarkable improvement in her physical and mental well-being. The debilitating pain, relentless fatigue, and persistent brain fog that had plagued her existence began to gradually subside. This newfound clarity of mind and revitalized body ignited a profound desire within Ali to extend the healing power of yoga to others. Now, she is sharing her personal experience, knowledge, and wisdom to help others access restoration through her new online course, Yoga Therapy for Deep Sleep.
Interview with Ali Kamas
Have you ever struggled with sleep? What helped you?
Yes, I struggled with sleeplessness. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us are ‘wired and tired.’ In my personal experience, several factors can impact sleep, including diet, hydration, stress levels, and exposure to artificial light. To address these challenges, establishing a nighttime routine has been instrumental in promoting good sleep hygiene. Additionally, creating a healthy sleep environment in my bedroom, often called a ‘nest,’ has been essential for ensuring a restful night’s sleep.
What motivated you to create your new course, Yoga Therapy for Deep Sleep?
The motivation behind creating “Yoga Therapy for Deep Sleep” stemmed from witnessing the widespread prevalence of sleep issues in my community and recognizing the potential of yoga therapy to address these challenges holistically. I want to empower individuals with practical tools and techniques rooted in yoga therapy principles to improve their sleep quality naturally and sustainably.
How do you know if you are getting good enough sleep?
From a yoga therapy perspective, good sleep is characterized by both quantity and quality. It’s not just about the number of hours slept but also about experiencing restorative, uninterrupted sleep cycles. Signs of good sleep include waking up feeling refreshed, maintaining consistent energy levels throughout the day, and experiencing improved mood and cognitive function.
It sounds simple, but it is also so challenging in our fast-paced world. What is the most common mistake you observe people making that affects their ability to sleep?
One common sleep-related mistake is the inability to unwind and relax before bedtime. Many people engage in stimulating activities, such as using electronic devices, working, or watching TV, right up until bedtime, which can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Establishing a calming bedtime routine and creating a conducive sleep environment is essential for promoting better sleep quality.
From your perspective as a Yoga Therapist, why do you think sleep disorders are so prevalent in our modern society?
Sleep disorders are prevalent in modern society due to various factors, including high levels of stress, sedentary lifestyles, overstimulation from electronic devices, irregular sleep schedules, and poor sleep hygiene practices. Yoga therapy offers holistic approaches to address these underlying factors by promoting relaxation, stress reduction, mindfulness, and healthy lifestyle habits conducive to better sleep.
How does Yoga Therapy differ from other therapeutic approaches like supplements, pills, and behavioral therapy?
Unlike supplements and pills, which often target symptoms without addressing underlying causes, yoga therapy takes a holistic approach to promote overall well-being by addressing physical, mental, and emotional aspects of health. Yoga therapy emphasizes self-awareness, self-regulation, and empowerment by integrating breathwork, movement, meditation, and lifestyle practices tailored to individual needs.
What is one tip anyone can implement to improve their sleep tonight?
A simple tip to improve sleep tonight is to practice a relaxation technique before bedtime, such as progressive muscle relaxation and mindful breathing.
What can folks expect from your course, Yoga Therapy for Deep Sleep?
Participants can expect tools that help calm the mind and body, reduce stress, and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. “Yoga Therapy for Deep Sleep” offers a comprehensive approach to addressing sleep issues using evidence-based yoga therapy techniques. Participants will learn practical tools and strategies to promote relaxation, reduce stress, regulate the nervous system, improve sleep hygiene, and cultivate healthy sleep habits for long-term wellness.
How can they join?
Students can join Ali by visiting the My Vinyasa Practice website and registering for the course here.