Meditation is a powerful tool to help with insomnia and sleep by calming the mind to reduce stress, worry, and anxiety. Insomnia can have many different causes, both mental and physical, but meditation can help regardless of the underlying issue. Guided meditation, in particular, is a helpful technique for achieving deep and peaceful sleep.
What is guided meditation?
Guided meditation is a type of visualization meditation where a person’s voice leads you through a step-by-step process of focusing your attention. It may involve focusing on your breath or relaxing different parts of your body. Guided meditations use images or sounds to promote calm, focus, and relaxation.
How to do a guided meditation for sleep
- Select a guided meditation video or recording, preferably for sleep.
- Prepare your sleep environment by turning off distractions and dimming the lights.
- Lie down or sit comfortably in a place that is conducive to sleep.
- Dim the light of your device and ensure it is plugged in if needed.
- Turn off autoplay so you can fall asleep easily after the meditation.
- Start the recording and focus on relaxing your body and breathing deeply.
- Concentrate on the voice in the recording and bring your attention back if your mind wanders.
Guided meditation videos for sleep and insomnia
We have curated a list of the best free guided meditations for sleep and insomnia:
Sleep Hygiene Tips and Meditation for Sleeping Well by YYOGA at Home
This video includes tips for good sleep hygiene and a simple guided sleep meditation focusing on sound, breath, and body awareness.
10 Minute Guided Meditation for Sleep by Shona Vertue
Features stretches, pranayama breathing, and a body scan in Shavasana pose.
Guided Meditation for Sleep and Anxiety
A 15-minute meditation incorporating breath work, visualization, body scan relaxation, and positive affirmations.
Guided Meditation For Sleep & Relaxation by Boho Beautiful
A 10-minute meditation focusing on deep breathing, relaxation, and affirmations for peaceful sleep.
Guided Deep Sleep Meditation for Developing Gratitude by The Mindful Movement
An hour-long meditation focusing on cultivating inner peace, compassion, and gratitude.
Guided Meditation for a Deep Peaceful and Calm Sleep by Meditation Vacation
A 47-minute guided meditation using imagery and music composed with binaural beats.
Yoga Nidra Guided Meditation for Sleep by Yoga with Ailsa
A basic 10-minute Yoga Nidra practice for relaxation and deep restful sleep.
Guided Meditation For Sleep And Relaxation by Yoga With Bird
A 10-minute body scan meditation to promote relaxation and calmness.
Easy & Quick Night Time Guided Meditation Before Sleep by BrettLarkinYoga
A 10-minute meditation focusing on body awareness, breathing, and relaxation.
Guided Meditation For Relaxation & Sleeping by YOGATX
A progressive relaxation meditation focusing on major muscle groups and organs.
Whether you’re looking to promote deep sleep or alleviate stress and anxiety, this meditation is a versatile tool that can be used in various situations.
Explore More Meditations
A dedicated and consistent practice of meditation helps to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote inner peace. Explore our Meditation Basics section to learn more about the many different types of meditation techniques.