Yoga Nidra
(Non-Sleep Deep Rest)
Yoga Nidra, often referred to as "yogic sleep," is a guided relaxation and meditation technique that induces deep physical, mental, and emotional relaxation while remaining fully awake and aware. It is a systematic method of progressive relaxation that encourages a state of conscious awareness between wakefulness and sleep.
The practice of Yoga Nidra typically involves lying down in a comfortable position and following verbal instructions provided by a guide or instructor. The guide leads you through a structured sequence of relaxation techniques, body awareness, breath awareness, and visualization.
The ultimate goal is to reach a state of profound relaxation, similar to the restorative state experienced during deep sleep, while maintaining a awareness of the present moment.
“In (yoga nidra) lies the secret of self-healing. Yoga Nidra is a pratyahara (going inwards) technique in which the distractions of the mind are contained and the mind is relaxed.” ― Satyananda Saraswati
Proven benefits
Improved quality of sleep
Existing research suggests that Yoga Nidra may help people fall asleep faster and experience higher quality sleep.
Enhanced creativity
Studies on brainwaves demonstrate increased alpha and theta brainwave activity in people who practice Yoga Nidra, enabling easier access to the dreamlike theta states associated with openness, creativity, and self-connection.
Improved focus and concentration
By clearing your mind of “mental fog", Yoga Nidra helps you think clearer, concentrate, and solve problems better. After many Yoga Nidra classes, you may notice that you focus better and are more productive.
Self-healing
Yoga Nidra works by slowing down the brain waves, similar to what happens during slow-wave sleep. Research shows that a greater percentage of growth hormone is released during this stage, promoting tissue growth and repair.
Relieves stress
Research measuring autonomic nervous system activity confirms that Yoga Nidra triggers a relaxation response, through a shift from sympathetic to parasympathetic activity.
Cardiovascular health
Parasympathetic activation decreases the respiratory and heart rate back to baseline. This improves markers of good cardiovascular health, such as heart rate variability, which in effect strengthens your cardiovascular health.