If you find yourself feeling sleepy or nodding off while meditating, do not worry—you are not alone! When we meditate, our bodies naturally enter a deep state of rest. Feeling sleepy is simply your body's way of telling you that it is relaxed.
Because of this, sleepiness is a very common challenge for both beginners and seasoned meditators alike. If your goal is to stay awake and mindful, here are a few quick adjustments and resources to help you combat the urge to snooze:
Quick Tips to Stay Awake
Before you begin your next session, try making a few simple changes to your environment and posture:
Change your posture: Avoid meditating while lying down in bed. Instead, try sitting upright in a chair with your feet flat on the floor, or sit cross-legged on a cushion.
Adjust your environment: Meditate in a well-lit room or open a window to let in some natural light and fresh air.
Shift your timing: Try not to meditate right after a heavy meal or right before your normal bedtime when your body is already naturally winding down.
Try the "Sleepiness" Meditation on Calm
We have created a specific guided meditation designed to help you gently work through the feeling of fatigue.
You can open and listen to the Sleepiness meditation directly in your app.
Alternatively, you can find it by tapping the Discover tab, searching for the Staying on Track series, and selecting the Sleepiness session.
Read Expert Advice from Our Head of Mindfulness
Tamara Levitt, Calm's Head of Mindfulness, has put together a comprehensive guide featuring 6 practical tips to help you fight off your body's tendency toward sleep while trying to meditate.
You can read her full Q&A and advice on our blog here: Q&A with Tamara: How to Combat Sleepiness during Meditation