Importance of sleeping patterns and food choices that affect it

Sleep is the golden chain that ties health and our well-being together. The fact that ancient ideologies invariably mention that a human body should get a minimum of 7-8 hours of sleep daily is quite true. Present day researches back this up, but the question arises that how likely we are actually making this happen. As it comes down to the qualities, preferences and schedules of an individual, in day-to-day life.

There are factors according to Ayurveda that is related to our true nature which is our dosha. Understanding this can lead to gain valuable insights for getting better quality and quantity of sleep which we need to shine inside out.

 

1. Vata: A person with this type of sleep is often light and highly variable owing to the movement and change in vata energy. This energy is related to the mind having a gush of thoughts and the body which may have increased sensitivity. Due to which, vata range is an average of 4-7 hours of sleep daily. 

 

2. Pitta: A person with this kind of sleep is moderate in nature, which means that mostly they sleep quite well. Even if one wakes up during the night, they will most often face no problem in getting back to sleep. The average pitta is between 5 -8 hours of sleep daily.

 

3. Kapha: People with this category of sleep is considered as the king of sleep. These individuals sleep deep without any disturbance and for longer periods in comparison to the other 2 doshas. They may likely overdo 8 hours of sleep if they have the liberty to do so! 

 

Steps according to Ayurveda for an easier sleep: 

1. One must wake up and sleep around the same time, every day. This supports in settling the mind. 

2. To create a night time routine is considered a substantial step towards a good sleep. Where one can take time to wind up the routine activities and then relax for an hour or so before hitting the bed. Not just this, it is highly recommended to avoid active and stimulating activities. This means staying away from television, laptop, smartphone, work or any other electronic devices. Rather opt for quiet and relaxing activities like meditation, gentle breathing exercises, etc. 

3. It is a big no to intake alcohol or caffeine before bed. 

4. Massaging the feet and temple head with warm sesame oil before going to bed, has amazing results. 

 

However, the changing times and lifestyle is causing a negative impact on the body as well as our sleeping patterns. One must eat well and sleep sound for the holistic development of the body and lead a stress-free life. It is a well-known fact that the three pillars of good health are sleep, exercise, and nutrition. Where most of us do eat to maintain a healthy diet in general, however many of us are negligent towards choosing foods for the purpose of improvising sleep. In connection to this, there are foods that trigger a sleep-inducing hormonal response and function to calm the nervous system. This is highly imperative for individuals who suffer from insomnia or sleep deprivation. 

Foods that are a hindrance to a sound sleep: 

1. Cheese

2. Spicy food

3. Ice cream

4. High on salt, processed junk food 

5. Alcohol

6. Foods high in fats

7. Caffeine and soda-based foods

8. Pasta, pizzas and similar foods 

9. High sugar cereals

10. Excessive water

Foods that aid to great sleep: 

1. Fruits and vegetables like cherries, bananas, kiwi, avocados, spinach, other leafy greens, etc.

2. Honey

3. Walnuts

4. Almonds

5. Legumes

6. Fish

7. Low-fat yogurt

8. Milk

Now you know what’s the worst and best for a peaceful sleeping pattern. But hold on! are you perplexed with how to switch onto these good foods which don’t become mundane on a daily basis? Then do follow our treasure trove of delicious recipes at https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/ We promise you won’t get bored and will direct yourself every day towards healthy ways to have foods with an amazing taste burst, that will make your sleep too, the best!