About This Practice

A slow, deep body rest for days when sleep has been short. A guided wind-down and a long, restorative stillness — with a gentle return at the end, so you can carry on with your day.

Benefits

A calmer, quieter body after a short night
A quiet pause in the middle of the day
The feeling of setting down some of the day's weight
A settled feeling to carry on with

When to Practice

Daytime, after a short night

How to Practice

Find somewhere you can lie down or recline undisturbed for about twenty minutes — a sofa, a bed, or a mat all work. Loosen anything tight and let your body be fully supported. This is a deep daytime rest for when sleep has been short. Let the long silences do the work; in them there is nothing to achieve. You do not need to fall asleep — resting is the whole practice. Unlike a bedtime session, this one guides you back at the end, so you can return to your day feeling a little more settled. If you do drift off, simply take your time when you surface.

Science & Research

Deep-rest practices like this are used by many people to unwind and feel more settled. It offers a way to rest, and is not a replacement for a full night's sleep.

Tips

Let the long silences be the point — there is nothing to do in them but rest.
It's fine if you drift off; the guided return will still be there when you surface.
If your mind wanders, gently return to the weight of your body.
A dim, quiet room helps the body settle.

Precautions

Practise in bed or somewhere safe to fall asleep. Never while driving.