Yoga Nidra
Yoga Nidra is a form of restorative guided meditation, often referred to as "yogic sleep." It is an effortless relaxation practice that is typically done while lying down, whether at home in the comfort of your bed, couch, yoga mat, or in-person in – for example – a yoga class setting. During a Yoga Nidra session, we tap into the "in-between state," where we are neither fully asleep nor fully awake. This unique state allows us to access the subconscious mind, where stored memories and emotions reside. The practice works with the autonomic nervous system, activating the parasympathetic nervous system (responsible for rest and digestion), which invites the body to enter a profound state of healing and relaxation.
Yoga Nidra offers a wide range of scientifically proven benefits, including improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety and stress, and better immune function. It fosters a deeper connection with yourself—both with your body and your inner world.
In a Yoga Nidra practice, we explore different layers of our human experience from a place of rest and observation. There is nothing you need to do—it's an effortless practice, an art of non-doing. During the practice, we may encounter the physical body, breath, emotions, thoughts, and beliefs, as well as a deeper, more spiritual layer. In this space, we might experience a sense of connection with the world around us, a profound stillness, or a natural sense of happiness that simply arises.
The beautiful thing about Yoga Nidra is that anyone can practice it. You can't do it wrong. Each session is unique, allowing you to develop trust in your own unique process. Whatever happens in the practice is exactly what you need at that moment. Sometimes, it’s a deep restorative rest; other times, it’s a chance to process particular emotions, thoughts, or sensations. Occasionally, it may feel like simply taking a nap, and at times, it might feel like complete chaos. Whatever arises, everything is welcomed from that space of deep rest.
My Yoga Nidra journey
I was introduced to Yoga Nidra during a time when I was recovering from illness and trauma, and since then, it has become part of my daily practice. What resonates with me most about this practice is its starting point: there is nothing to do, nothing to fix. In contrast to the prevailing mindset that we must constantly strive to be the best version of ourselves, Yoga Nidra begins with the belief that we are already whole and complete. The only thing we need to do is… nothing. This can feel truly uncomfortable at first, especially when we are not accustomed to allowing ourselves to do nothing.
Yoga Nidra was a great support during my recovery. I was undergoing numerous treatments and putting in a lot of effort to heal, so it was a profound relief to return to this practice each day and slowly realize that I didn’t have to do anything. I was simply allowed to be—to welcome every part of my experience, from a place of deep rest. It helps me reconnect with the part of me that remains restful, still, and complete – the part that’s beneath all of the sensations, emotions, thoughts, and beliefs. It’s the part of me that quietly observes, that is always OK, and that is always at peace.
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