A highly debated topic within the breathing exercise field. Some people like to argue that meditation only improves sleep through placebo or perception and not in reality. While various studies show that sleep improvements are made while undertaking a meditation routine. This post will define meditation, assess does meditation improve sleep and if it matters what time of the day you meditate.
What is Meditation?
The definition of meditation varies but at Thriive we define it as a type of breathing exercise and mindfulness practice. Meditation uses breath to focus on the present. This can be guided, through breath counting, or any method that grounds you in the present moving through breaths. Meditation has numerous proven benefits such as reduced stress and anxiety, improved creativity and concentration.
Does Meditation Improve Sleep?
So does meditation improve sleep? The National Institute of Mental Health conducted a meta-analysis that portrayed meditation as very likely being beneficial for improved sleep but not conclusive. The University of Wisconsin did find conclusive results on improving sleep but they conducted the study with meditation and exercise simultaneously. While this does not necessarily prove meditation was the cause of the improved sleep, it makes it extremely likely. Sleep Foundation corroborates this view. They believe that there is such an abundance of evidence linking meditation and improved sleep that it would be very unlikely for them not to be related.
Does it Matter When I Meditate?
Now we have answered the question does meditation improve sleep, we should see if the time of day you meditate affects sleep. Healthline recommends meditating just before you go to bed if you struggle with sleeping. This does not necessarily confirm that meditation only benefits sleep if it is done just before bed. The NHS believes that regularly practicing meditation at any point will lead to improved sleep quality.
If you are looking for a structed meditation program and guided meditations for sleep we are launching our app in September. It also includes personalised mobility routines specific to you. Additionally it comes with a 1 week no-card detail free trial. Click here to get notified when we launch.
