Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra: The Art of Yogic Sleep

Yoga Nidra, which translates to "yogic sleep," is a powerful guided meditation technique that induces a state of deep relaxation and conscious awareness. It is a systematic method of moving from the external world to the inner world, leading to a state of consciousness between waking and sleeping.

Core Philosophy

The goal of Yoga Nidra is not to fall asleep, but to remain consciously aware in a state of deep relaxation. In this threshold state, the mind is exceptionally receptive. The practice is designed to systematically relax the body and mind and access the subconscious.

The Stages of the Practice

A Yoga Nidra session is always guided. The practitioner lies down comfortably in Savasana and follows the voice of the instructor through a series of specific stages:

1. Internalization: Drawing awareness inward.
2. Sankalpa (Intention): Silently stating a short, positive resolve.
3. Rotation of Consciousness: A systematic "tour" of the body.
4. Breath Awareness: Observing the natural breath.
5. Opposite Sensations: Evoking opposite feelings, such as heaviness and lightness.
6. Visualization: A series of rapid visualizations.
7. Sankalpa (Revisited): Repeating the intention.
8. Externalization: Gently bringing awareness back to the external world.

Key Poses

• The entire practice is done in one pose: Corpse Pose (Savasana), often supported with blankets and bolsters for maximum comfort.