Sanmonji, Sleeping Cat 1992, woodblock print
Sleep is an essential bodily function, like eating and breathing. But more and more, we minimize its importance, and the health effects can be devastating. Besides affecting how we feel and function day to day, a chronic lack of sleep have harmful effects on our emotional and spiritual well-being.
Besides allowing our bodies and brains to refuel, sleep allows for our souls to recharge.
Here are two relaxation techniques to use as you wind-down in the evening:
Use a mind-body technique. Doing a bedtime relaxation exercise, such as the following, can help you fall asleep or get better, deeper sleep. Paced breathing, inhale through your nose for a count of four. Hold for a count of seven. Exhale through your mouth for a count of eight. As you breathe, rest the tip of your tongue on the ridge behind your front teeth. When you exhale, it should create a shooshing sound. Repeat four times.
Mental Muscle Relaxation
Lying down or sitting comfortably, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Starting at the top of your head, notice whether there’s tension in your scalp and forehead. If there is, let it go. Progress all the way down your body, assessing each muscle group and mentally releasing any tension.
Our Zen Timepiece’s acoustic 6-inch brass bowl-gong clock is the world’s ultimate alarm clock, practice timer, and “mindfulness bell.” It awaken you with the beautiful tones of a singing-bowl, used by many sound therapist.
It fills your environment with
beautifully complex tones whenever it strikes. In the morning, its exquisite sounds summon your consciousness into awakening with a series of subtle gongs that provide an elegant beginning to your day. Once you experience the
Zen Timepiece‘s progressive awakening, you’ll never want to wake up any other way. It also serves as the perfect meditation timer. Available in 5 wood styles, including bamboo.
Remember to set your Zen Alarm Clock with the 10 minute programmed chime sequence to awken you in the morning relaxed and refreshed.
adapted from Body + Soul, November 2009 by Tracy Gaudet, M.D.
Singing Bowl Alarm Clock with Natural Sounds to Awaken You
Now & Zen – The Gradual Alarm Clock Store
1638 Pearl Street
Boulder, CO 80302
Posted in Japanese Inspired Zen Clocks, Natural Awakening, Now & Zen Alarm Clocks, Progressive Awakening, Sleep Habits
