125: Nighttime Breathing Ritual: Your Guide to Returning to a Blissful Sleep

125: Nighttime Breathing Ritual: Your Guide to Returning to a Blissful Sleep

Author: Lorrie Mickelson, Habits & Self Care November 9, 2024 Duration: 31:26

For the past couple of weeks, we have been exploring how to prepare for and let go into a good night’s sleep.


Of course, that’s the first - and often biggest - part of the sleep battle at times.


But what about those nights you drift off to sleep only to find yourself awake again 4 hours later, staring off into the dark room?


This week, on Episode #125 of the Habit Thrive Podcast, I’m going to share with you 3 breathing exercises - and some honorable mentions - for when you find yourself in that situation.


#1: A Breathing Technique with Progressive Muscle Relaxation


This practice is great for when you wake up feeling tension in your body and is a great way to teach your body to relax.


#2: The 4-7-8 breath


Just like it sounds, this practice involves inhaling for 4, suspending for 7, and exhaling for 8.


A few rounds of this breathing technique can have you drifting back into dreamland.


#3: Alternate Nostril Breathing


This is perfect for when you’re feeling “plugged up” on one side or the other.


It brings balance not only to plugged nasal passages, but a plugged mind as well!


Honorable Mentions:


Square Breath - Inhale for 4, suspend for 4, exhale for 4, suspend for 4.


Suspended Exhalation - Exhale for twice as long as you inhale.


Counting Your Breaths - 1 to 100, 100-1… whatever works for you!


Relaxation Audio - A meditation, nature sounds, or maybe a rainstorm. Anything to distract your wandering mind.


Try one of these the next time you find yourself waking up from your sleep in the middle of the night.


I just know that you will find the perfect practice to bring you back into sleep.


Sweet dreams!


Lorrie xoxox



Download my Sleep Checklist


Loving the show? Let’s connect! Find me:

Facebook: Women's Wellness Community: For women wanting to rock their “Me Now” Years

Instagram: @Habitguru365

Website: lorriemickelson.com


Habits, Mindfulness Routines & Self Care For Women 50 & Beyond 


Loving the show? Let’s connect! Find me:

Facebook: Women's Wellness Community: For women wanting to rock their “Me Now” Years

Instagram: @Habitguru365

Website: lorriemickelson.com

MemberVault: lorriemickelson.vipmembervault.com


Habits, Mindfulness Routines & Self Care For Women 50 & Beyond


Navigating the years after fifty brings a unique blend of freedom and uncertainty. The Habit Thrive Podcast ~ Self Care Habits, Mindfulness & Wellness Routines for Women 50 & Beyond is a companion for that journey, hosted by Lorrie Mickelson. This isn't about drastic overhauls but the steady, impactful habits that fit into a life already rich with experience. Lorrie focuses on practical, sustainable self-care that acknowledges the physical and emotional shifts of this chapter. You'll hear conversations that feel like a chat with a knowledgeable friend, exploring how small, consistent actions in fitness, mindfulness, and daily routines can lead to feeling stronger, sleeping more soundly, and approaching each day with renewed energy instead of overwhelm. This podcast digs into the real how-to, from establishing grounding morning rituals to winding down effectively at night, all tailored for the realities and opportunities of life after fifty. It’s a resource for building resilience and vitality through manageable steps, making the most of this vibrant and potentially transformative time. Tune in for honest discussions and actionable ideas that help you thrive in your own definition of wellness.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Habit Thrive Podcast ~ Self Care Habits, Mindfulness & Wellness Routines for Women 50 & Beyond
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