Sleep means total relaxation of body and mind, no activity of mind, no movement in mind. It is the state of unconsciousness as for as outwards moving consciousness is concerned. Mind does not function in real sleep. If dream is there, it is not sleep.
Sleep is very important support to health. Sleep holds a unique value for Health and can be even considered as one of the boons which God has given to Human beings. Natural sleep gives complete rest to the body and mind and provides psychic energy and enthusiasm. But if we do not know how to take natural sleep, it may not be much helpful in giving rest. To keep anyone awake without allowing him to sleep is one of the cruelest punishments that can be given to anybody. If sleep is taken away from human beings, the entire world will be converted into a madhouse.
A tired and spent person gets relief and is able to retrieve his liveliness and energy only after taking sound sleep. Sleep is a law of nature which is applicable not only to human beings but also to the botanical world. Our physical and mental health depends a great deal on sleep. In our country, the rule of 'early to bed and early to rise' has been followed traditionally. However, this practice has been very adversely affected by the fast pace of urbanization and industrialization. In this context, this is also relevant to remember that sleep of 6 to 8 hours at any point of time during the 24 hours of a day is not sufficient for health. This sleep, in order to be beneficial to health, should be taken only at the appointed time of nature i.e. during night.
Now a day insomnia and sleeplessness is common problem amongst people due to alteration in working pattern, tension, anxiety, uneven life style etc. We are not taking this fact seriously .This will lead to many incurable and dangerous life threatening problems. We are destroying our body and health. We are so busy that we are not spending a little time for our health.
Yoga and Pranayama is an important measure to reduce work place negativity, tension, anxiety and so many other problems. Regular practice of pranayam and yoga cures insomnia and sleeplessness and gives better health. If every person follows this regime, this will eradicate diseases from world.
• Bhastrika pranayam 3 to 5 minute
• Kapalbhati pranayam 3 to 5 minute
• Anulom Vilom pranayam 5 to 10 minutes
• Bhramari pranayam 5 to 10 times
• Udgith Pranayam 5 to 10 times
• Ujjai Pranayam 5 to 10 times
Besides this Shavasan and Yognidra is very much useful for sound sleep. These practices are able to cure all types of ailments. Listening to light music like mantras before sleep is beneficial in insomnia and sleeplessness.