What is Yoga Nidra and what are the benefits
Yoga Nidra
I often recommend the practice of Yoga Nidra to many of my clients. But what is Yoga Nidra?
Yoga nidra or Yogic sleep is a sleep state of consciousness. The space between falling into a deep sleep and deep relaxation. It is a complete physical, metal and emotional relaxation.
Yoga Nidra is a state in which the body is completely relaxed. The practitioner becomes systematically and increasingly aware of their inner world by following a set of verbal instructions.
Meditation typically requires concentration on a single focus. This can be very challenging, particularly for beginners. In yoga nidra the practitioner remains in a state of light withdrawal of the 5 senses (pratyahara). Four of his or her senses are internalised and only the hearing still connects to the instructions.
Both Yoga nidra and meditation intend to encourage deep relaxation and a state of heightened intuition.
Staring out over the ocean always has such a calming effect on me
Our modern day lifestyles are highly demanding, stressful and competitive. Yoga Nidra offers an accessible tool to alleviate some of the symptoms we experience as a result of stress and tension.
Yoga nidra is one of the deepest possible states of relaxation while still maintaining full consciousness.
The Yogic texts all encourage us to find peace within. When we learn to relax and harmonise our own body and mind, we can improve our overall quality of life.
You are able to create physical relaxation of the muscular and nervous system. Emotional release by quieting the mind. It also releases and relaxes mental tension by tapping into the subconscious mind.
It is even better than a power nap!
Shakti Yoga teacher training courses, http://www.shaktiyoga.co.za. include Yoga Nidra. One of your practical exams will be to prepare a script and deliver it.
Benefits include:
- Reduced anxiety and tension
- Improved sleep patterns
- Improved concentration
- A preparatory tool for meditation
- A complimentary Yoga practice to the physical practice of Asana’s
After experimenting with several different Yoga nidra options on Youtube, I could not ignore the benefits.
Watching the sunset is an ideal way to relax and unwind
Make sure that whatever Yoga nidra you listen too encourages you to set an intention, resolve or Sankulpa. It should also include a rotation of consciousness. This does not involve any physical movement. It takes your awareness to different parts of your body.
You can expect a visualisation in the last stage to induce complete mental relaxation. The practice should end with a resolve. The resolve should be clear and positive.
You should be guided gradually from your psychic sleep back to the waking state.
Here are links to some of my preferred Yoga Nidras.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfIikxpis9s&t=9s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7H0FKzeuVVs
There are several to choose from. I would love to hear from you which you enjoyed and why!
