Yoga Nidra is a Sanskrit term meaning “yogic sleep”.
It’s a deep relaxation technique sometimes referred to as body scan meditation. It is often prescribed as an effective way to calm the nervous system and promote deep quality sleep. For this reason it is popular with those who experience insomnia.
Yoga Nidra is done by laying down in a comfortable position. You are guided to follow step-by-step instructions that take your awareness to various parts of your body.
This body scan process brings you into a very deep relaxation. Once your whole body is deeply relaxed, you enter a state between sleeping and waking, known as the alpha state.
In the alpha state you may experience insights, epiphanies, or you may fall asleep! Whatever the case, It’s an excellent way to release stress and tension from your body and busy mind.
If you are prone to waking up in the middle of the night and not able to get back to sleep, you can stay in bed and listen to Yoga Nidra in bed to get you back to sleep.
People who suffer from exhaustion often report feelings of rejuvenation after the practice.
The best thing about Yoga Nidra is that anyone can do it, it’s simple and enjoyable.
You can try it for yourself here with my 20 minute Yoga Nidra class.
Enjoy!
