AN INTRODUCTION TO YOGA NIDRA

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Yogic sleep or Yoga Nidra is a powerful meditation practice, enabling practitioners to access the deeply restorative aspects of sleep while remaining conscious. Conducted in savasana, students are guided through an introspective meditation, leading the practitioner to find natural equilibrium between breath and body. It is a deeply restorative, healing process; just 1 hour of yoga nidra is supposedly equivalent to 4 hours of deep sleep!

Given that the vast majority of us experience broken sleep regularly, yoga nidra may well be the answer. Here are just some of the many benefits of this unique practice.

Open to Everyone

You do not need to have an advanced yoga practice or experienced meditator to experience the benefits of this deep meditation. While rigorous asana and difficult postures may not be for everyone, yoga nidra is accessible to all. All you need is a mat to lie down on and a teacher to guide you through the meditative practice. In yoga nidra, everyone is equal. Whether you are a seasoned yoga pro or struggle to touch your toes, anyone can benefit from yogic sleep.

Reduces Stress

Understandably, the last year has resulted in many of us feeling increased stress levels. While yoga nidra cannot change our circumstances, it is highly effective in reducing tension and stress response. Yoga nidra releases the body of anxiety. The deep-breathing restful state slows the nervous system, which in turn releases hormones that relax and calm the body. Unlike typical vinyasa classes, the complete physical stillness of yoga nidra induces a sleep-like state, allowing practitioners to fully unwind and find complete harmony between body and mind.