New research finds that yoga, walking, and other exercises could help you sleep longer and avoid daytime fatigue. Yoga and other exercises are good for your waking and sleeping health. When you’re exhausted, starting a new exercise routine may sound like a nightmare, but a new study suggests getting active could be the secret to a good night’s sleep. Scientists in China reviewed existing clinical trial data and found that certain forms of exercise, including yoga and jogging, appeared to help people sleep longer at night. The findings suggest physical activity should be considered as a frontline treatment for insomnia. Yoga incorporates breath control and meditation, which helps regulate the autonomic nervous system and reduce anxiety and stress. Tai Chi, as a mind-body practice combining physical movement and mental focus, may enhance parasympathetic activity, reduce inflammatory responses, and promote brain plasticity and circadian rhythm regulation. Aerobic exercises such as walking or jogging may improve sleep structure by increasing energy expenditure, enhancing melatonin secretion, lowering cortisol levels, and boosting the proportion of deep sleep Overall, exercise is a natural sleep aid with low side effects, low costs, and high accessibility, making it especially suitable for promotion in primary healthcare and community health settings The researchers analyzed data from 22 clinical trials involving more than 1,300 participants and 13 different interventions for insomnia, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, seven forms of exercise, and so-called active controls, like stretching or being given lifestyle advice.
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Wednesday, February 18, 2026