You stopped checking emails over an hour ago, washed and moisturized your face and just finished a warm cup of tea while winding down with a new book. Now, just a few Pilates moves and it’s bedtime! Wait. What?
Although many wellness-minded people already know that research has linked restorative stretches and poses from disciplines like yoga and Pilates with better sleep at night, it isn’t exactly top of mind at the end of a long day. Which is why we asked New York Pilates founder Heather Andersen for a few of her recommended stretches for better rest.
Arguably one of the top Pilates instructors in the country, Andersen actively pursues a good night’s rest after she’s filled her day with classes, meetings and sautéed greens. “It’s so important to recharge and to get plenty of sleep,” she says. “Plus, I find my zen through movement. The body can achieve a deeper connection with the mind and actually focus on stillness and presence.”
We feel more relaxed just thinking about it that way. Below, her three moves for a better night’s sleep (all of which you can do at home on the floor or a mat):
I find my zen through movement. The body can achieve a deeper connection with the mind and actually focus on stillness and presence.
