Deep Thoughts Time

I just love Jack Handey's Deep Thoughts.

You may be familiar with this popular Saturday Night Live feature.
I find Jack's humour so deliciously absurd that I intend to make
Deep Thoughts a regular highlight on Anxiety Buster Bonbons.

So here's today's selection.
If you don't find it funny,
then fake it!

The memories of my family outings are still a source of strength to me.
I remember we'd all pile into the car - I forget what kind it was -
and drive and drive. I'm not sure where we'd go, but I think there were
some trees there. The smell of something was strong in the air as we
played whatever sport we played. I remember a bigger, older guy
we called "Dad." We'd eat some stuff, or not, and then I think we
went home. I guess some things never leave you.

Don't Let The Bed Bugs Bite

In her article, Yoga For A Good Night's Sleep, Sally Eauclaire Osborne's message is clear: If falling asleep is a problem for you, then stress is the likely culprit.

We all know how important it is to get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation depresses the immune system, increases irritability, and slows reaction time, thus increasing the likelihood of car crashes and other accidents. But how much sleep does one need in order to function properly? Most say it should be between seven and nine hours.

I was surprised to learn how traditional societies have different sleep customs than ours. Apparently, it's quite common for people in non-industrialized societies to go to bed early, sleep for a few hours, and then wake up in the middle of the night to record dreams, meditate, contemplate, make art, or make love. They then go back to bed for a few more hours of rest.

Another way of going about it is to spend less time sleeping at night, and compensate by napping during the day. This was a popular pattern with Thomas Jefferson and Winston Churchill.

So, what do you do if you can't fall asleep, and you're not the type to spend the night sculpting...or you don't have a significant other to make love to?

Sally's answer is to have an active yoga routine during the day.

If you want to wind down, try calming poses such as lying with your feet up the wall. Deep belly breathing is also recommended.

Here's a pose I practice many times a day. If I'm waiting for the water to boil for my mint tea, or if I've been sitting at the computer for too long, I take a few minutes to do the Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana).

One of the many benefits of this pose is that it calms the brain. It also reduces fatigue and anxiety, and helps relieve stress, headaches, and insomnia.

But be careful if you have a back problem or injury. Remember: You should always seek professional advice before starting any fitness program.

Pleasant dreams!

Mudd

For Susan's article, click here

For more details on the Uttanasana pose, click here

P.S.: Questions or not, I'd love to hear from you. Please email me at
anxietybuster@gmail.com or simply click the link on the sidebar.