yoga nidra
Yoga Nidra is a form of deep relaxation, and could also be called a form of meditation. In a Nidra practice, we explore different states of consciousness, surfing the interface between waking and sleeping to find the hypnagogic state. It is typically practiced laying down in Shavasana, and can do wonders for the parasympathetic (rest + digest, restorative) nervous system.
I love this practice, and have found that carving out time for Nidra sessions for even as little as 15 minutes can have a huge impact on my day. It helps with energy levels, creativity and ‘de-stressing’.
““It’s a practice during which we could experience pure consciousness, where the body is deeply relaxed or even asleep and the mind is awake and aware but deeply still.””
What is Yoga Nidra?
If you would like to listen to more Yoga Nidra practices, you can listen via the link below
FAQ’s
Can everybody practice Yoga Nidra?
Absolutely no previous experience of Yoga Nidra is required prior to taking a practice, and there are no physical requirements, so if you have any injuries etc all you need to do is to make yourself as comfortable as possible and you are already half way there.
Please note that the Yoga Nidra practice that I offer is not appropriate if you have any history of illness with psychoses or schizophrenia. If you suffer from any specific trauma / PTSD, then an individual assessment would need to be made.
What if I can’t concentrate or understand what the teacher is saying?
Yoga Nidra is a place of paradoxes: we hear a voice but can’t understand the words, we feel deeply asleep but fully aware. If you find yourself asleep or not understanding the words, then don’t block this - flow with the experience. This is normal and a good sign that you’ve gone deep beyond the conscious mind. The best thing to do is to go with the flow, don’t worry about consciously understanding the words and stay deep.
What happens if my mind is too busy?
Everyone experiences ‘a busy mind’ from time to time - and this is completely normal ! It’s possible that you may experience thoughts like “nothing is happening”, “this is pointless why am I here” or “I can’t do this”. During quiet moments … the brain kicks in to action and we start thinking - that’s just what happens. So instead of fighting with your mind, I invite you to sit with and observe your thoughts. You are never alone when these more ‘disruptive thoughts arrive’. If you are observing that you are having these thoughts … then you are already beginning the work.