If you’ve ever spent a full day running errands, chasing after your kids, or going on a hike, chances are you’ve fallen into bed and fallen asleep instantly. Insomnia was not your enemy after you’ve worn your body down through physical activity.

However, for some people, that happy ending doesn’t work for them.

Rigorous physical activity that tenses the muscles and gets the heart rate up can act as a stimulant. Instead of drifting off to sleep easily, a person may find that they are wide awake and struggling with insomnia.

An active way of life is vitally important. Not only because of the apparent health benefits, but also because regular exercise can be a natural cure for insomnia.

In fact, it is important to choose exercises that work for you to achieve the goal of sleep. The ideas below should encourage you and hopefully get you to a good night’s rest.

Yoga is a practice that people have been doing for centuries. It requires a sequence of stretches and breathing exercises that really work to strengthen the body from the inside out. Certainly there are several options in yoga programs. Finding one that suits you shouldn’t be difficult.

If you are someone who prefers to attend a yoga class, check local listings. Some programs will offer a free session. This will help you become familiar with the program and the series of legs involved.

There are also plenty of Internet, TV, and DVD programs for all fitness levels. If you find it to be something you enjoy, you can conveniently add it to your exercise routine and you’ll also reap the positive benefits associated with your sleep patterns.

Walking is another great activity to combat insomnia. Your time is very important. You’ll want to avoid a long, strenuous walk shortly before you plan to wind down for the night.

During the walk, your heartbeat will speed up and many of your muscles will tense. Sleep will most likely evade him for several hours if he goes from moving at a steady pace to trying to lie quietly in bed waiting for sleep to come.

Your body needs a period of relaxation, so the benefits of walking associated with insomnia may be more valuable if you walk earlier in the day.

An additional exercise that can have a positive effect when it comes to insomnia is swimming. Swimming at a steady pace through the pool will give your muscles a gentle workout, and the water offers a relaxing quality that other exercise regimens don’t.

Workouts are a great way to combat insomnia naturally. But the truth is that success depends on the type of exercise. Choose something that isn’t too strenuous, is comfortable, and allows you to easily transition from activity to getting ready for bed.

If you make exercise a normal part of your routine and schedule your most strenuous workouts for the first part of the day, you’ll be well on your way to a good night’s sleep.