The Magic of Yoga Nidra & 12 Amazing Benefits
So what is Yoga Nidra exactly?
Yoga Nidra is a powerful technique diving inwards by bringing awareness to the different body parts while staying present with it. Yoga Nidra is also called ‘Yogic Sleep’ or ‘Psychic Sleep’. It is about deep relaxation but way more than that. During the practice of Yoga Nidra the integration of trauma takes place, creating a sense of wholeness.
One appears to be asleep however the consciousness is functioning on a deeper level of awareness whilst being aware of your surroundings. Yoga Nidra is considered a Body Scan practice that helps you achieve very deep states of relaxation by gradually moving your awareness throughout your body.
You are noticing all sensations within your body. Exploring tightness, tension, discomfort, pain, heat, etc. helps you to stay present in the now. It also allows you to connect your emotions to the physical sensations you're experiencing during Yoga Nidra. By accessing different states of Brainwaves Yoga Nidra also instills a feeling of inner peace and balance, leaving you refreshed and whole. Yoga can be translated as union and Nidra as sleep.
What is the difference between Yoga Nidra and Meditation?
While the primary goal of meditation and Yoga Nidra are alike – both methods work to develop a heightened sense of awareness. With meditation, you are traditionally seated, while Yoga Nidra is always practiced lying down.
It involves chilling out and slowing down. The same goes for meditation. While some people lump them together, they're two different practices. With yoga Nidra, the individual is lying down. The primary goal is to move into a deep state of consciousness, awareness of sleep, and a deeper state of relaxation with awareness.
Regarding meditation, the individual is sitting in a waking state of consciousness while focusing the mind and allowing ideas to come and go freely. Meditation is about training in awareness and gaining a healthy sense of perspective.
What does Yoga Nidra help with?
Looking at all the wonderful Benefits that come with the pratice of Yoga Nidra, it especially helps with the following:
Treats post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Reduces symptoms of anxiety & depression
Reduces chronic pain
Reduces inflammation in the body
Creates a sense of wholeness
Supports better and deeper sleep
Increases dopamine levels
Improves thought patterns & reduces stress
Enhances cognitive performance & memory
Improves self-esteem & confidence
Improves immune system functions
Improves overall mental & physical health
Starting with the practice of Yoga Nidra today is going to change your life for the better by improving your overall health.
What are the stages of Yoga Nidra?
Step 1 Prepare Yourself
Step 2 Focus on Breathing
Step 3 Focus on Your Body
Step 4 Muscle Relaxation
Step 5 Visualization
Step 6 Sankalpa
Step 7 Reawaken
How to get started?
Below are some basic steps to get started.
Select your location with a comfortable flat surface. Place a yoga mat or blanket.
Take your time to prepare your environment. Comfort is key.
Wear comfy & loose clothing.
Make sure your space is quiet before getting started.
Extra Tipp: As the practise of Yoga Nidra is a withdrawal from the senses please do not light a candle or incense.
Healju Hub’s Good to Know:
Yoga Nidra is taught lying down, making it a very comfortable and smooth practice. Our yoga teacher seamlessly guides you through the exercise. It is a wonderful practice, especially after a long day leading up to bedtime. And did you know? Yoga Nidra promotes a restorative rest and a continuous practice may lead to your deepest sleep yet.
Practicing Yoga should be done with respect and care to prevent the chance of injury. Before starting out & in case of any health concerns it' s best to consult your doctor or a medical professional first.