What is Yoga Nidra?
Yoga nidra, a Sanskrit term meaning "yogic sleep" is a deep relaxation technique and a form of meditation.
Also called "psychic sleep," yoga nidra is a state between sleeping and waking. The body is completely relaxed and the practitioner turns the awareness inward by listening to a set of instructions; much like a guided meditation.
In yoga nidra, the practitioner enters their alpha state and their focus shifts to the third eye chakra(sahasrara). It also stimulates the hormones in the pineal gland, which releases melatonin -- a horomone that reduces stress, boosts the immune system and helps prevent illness. Regular practice helps harmonize the brain hemispheres, promoting better mental performance.
The practice draws our attention inwards, and we learn to surf between the states of wakefulness and sleep, where our body finds its natural state of equilibrium (homeostasis) – the breath balances and becomes quiet, unconscious and conscious aspects of the mind reveal themselves, and we fall into an innate state of deep, blissful awareness.
As we rest here, we can turn our attention easily and effortlessly to the very nature of awareness and consciousness. We start to experience the ‘deeper’ features of yogic teachings that previously we perhaps considered intangible, such as feeling our interconnected wholeness and becoming aware of our true, unified nature – expansive, inclusive, and deeply restful.
Yoga Nidra takes us effortlessly into a state of harmonious, restful being. From here, we can be healed, restored and awakened to our deepest, all-knowing, all-welcoming self. It’s a sublime practice, gaining popularity the world over, and ongoing research continues to prove its effectiveness.
Benefits of Yoga Nidra
Aside from being relaxing, restorative and restful, studies have shown that yoga nidra can also:
Ease insomnia
Decrease anxiety
Alleviate stress
Reduce PTSD, chronic pain and chemical dependency
Heighten awareness and focus
Transform negative habits, behaviors and ways of thinking
Foster feelings of peace, calm, and clarity
Calms the mind
Relaxes and rejuvenates the body
Soothes the nervous system
Reduces fatigue
Lowers high cholesterol and blood pressure levels
Strengthens immunity
Improves quality of sleep
Treats depression
Reduces pain
Boosts concentration level
Supports brain function and boosts creativity
