If getting to sleep is becoming a major problem, it could be all a matter of breath. British health expert Jane Alexander says that, according to some eastern practices, altering your breathing can improve your health, including helping you to sleep better.
Alexander cites one exercise that should help, starting with sitting comfortably in a chair, both feet on the floor, eyes closed and body relaxed. "Now place your right hand around your nose, resting your right thumb against the right nostril, with the other fingers lying gently toward your left nostril."
The aim, she says, is to close one nostril at a time, "comfortably and easily, without moving your hand." Close the right nostril and slowly exhale through your left, allowing your breathing to be smooth and natural.
Alternate between nostrils for about five minutes, and if you feel uncomfortable at any time, breathe thorough your mouth for a while until you can return to the nose, Alexander says. "When you have finished, simply sit and relax with your eyes closed."
