Articles

Cycles of Rest

Our lives and our universe are governed by alternating cycles of rest and activity. Each cycle makes the other necessary, encouraging a dynamic balance between them. In the body, rest occurs when the major movements that expend energy give way to the subtle processes of repair, cellular restoration, and “house cleaning” that regenerate energy.

Without enough rest, nutrients are exhausted and toxins accumulate in the body. We feel run down, depleted, and eventually sick.
With too much rest our muscles become flaccid and lose tone, which causes stagnation of metabolic wastes in the cells, tissues, and organs.
Balancing activity and rest keeps the muscles strong and flexible so that they can maintain and protect our physiology by regularly releasing toxins and eliminating waste products.

Sleep occurs when the body and mind enter into rest together. If the evening meal has not been completely digested the body’s internal chemistry will disturb the mind. Similarly, if the day’s thoughts have not been resolved (or mentally digested,) mental agitation will inhibit sleep. So both body and mind need to prepare for sleep at the same time.

Additional requirements for deep sleep and rejuvenation are proper spinal alignment and physical comfort. When the body is torqued or misaligned the muscles and organs bear the stress and the exchange of nutrients and wastes become obstructed. The resulting discomfort agitates the mind and further weakens the chance for a good night’s sleep.

Ayurveda, the medical branch of Yoga, offers the following guidelines for sound, natural sleep:

1. Going to bed regularly by 10 PM. and waking up regularly between 4 AM and 7 AM.
2. Eating a light evening meal by 7PM and avoiding spicy or heavy foods.
3. Exercising regularly, never strenuously or right before bed time.
4. Only taking afternoon naps when necessary and keeping them short.
5. Avoiding caffeine or alcohol for three hours before bed time.
6. Having enough food in your stomach so you don’t wake up with hunger pangs.*
7. Resolving hurt or angry feelings before going to bed.
8. Creating a comfortably cool and dark environment in your bedroom.
9. Tailoring your mattress, pillow, and covers to maximize your comfort.
10. Learning to relax your muscles and your mind.

*Warm a cup of cow’s milk or almond milk to the boiling point and add two pinches of cardamom for a nourishing and relaxing drink, one half hour before bed.

Michael S. Dick is an Ayurvedic consultant in Albuquerque, NM. He has studied extensively at the Ayurvedic Institute, Albuquerque as well as with several Ayurvedic Doctors in India.

Savitri Ermini is CEO of Serenity Systems, Inc. and has also studied at the Ayurvedic Institute, Albuquerque.

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