Yoga Nidra Meditation

Yoga nidra translates as "yogic sleep" and is a state of being, often described as part way between awake and asleep.  Yoga nidra as a meditation practice is rooted in ancient traditions, and has the potential to help us access this state of yogic sleep as well as other states of relaxation and rest.  The right to rest is a universal and fundamental human need and allows us to restore so we can reach our full potential.

Whilst there are different lineages of yoga nidra they contain common elements and I offer all of these in my teaching.  This includes intention setting (Sankalpa), rotation of awareness around the body, breath awareness, working with feelings and sensations, and visualisations. 

Many people come to yoga nidra as an aid for sleep and other healing.  Practiced at bedtime the technique can support the mind in drifting off to sleep.  Practiced during the day, yoga nidra can train the mind to be able to let go of thought, so at night it will be better able to find the pathway into sleep.  The relaxation yoga nidra brings can also help with anxiety, stress, physical wellbeing and has even been shown to boost the immune system.  It can also be an excellent support in addiction recovery.

Working with our Sankalpa in yoga nidra can be truly transformative, and support us in embedding our intention in everyday life.  Some find spiritual benefits in the practice, a sense of connection to the universal, and a feeling of coming home.  Working with visualisations can also boost our creativity.  Learning to let go of thoughts and sensations in the practice can build resilience, teaching us that we don't have to follow every thought in our head, and we can even have the power to choose how we feel.  This can be truly life changing.  

Each experience of yoga nidra will be different and there is no right or wrong way to experience the practice.  Benefits may be felt immediately, or may be something you notice showing up in your life over a period of time.  The practice is not a substitute for medical or other help but can be an excellent complement and support overall wellbeing.

Preparing for yoga nidra acts as a bridge between the rest of your day and the meditation session, allowing you to cross over into a cushioned nest of relaxation.  It can be nice to do some stretches to wind down before practicing, or undertake a small ritual like lighting a candle, to mark this special time.  Personally I like to make a hot herbal tea for myself, which will be ready and waiting for me once I finish the session, as an act of self-love.  Don't worry if you don't have time to wind down before your session and come straight from a busy day, as we can take time to ease into the practice together.

Try to find a quiet room to do the session in, if you do live with others ask them not to disturb you, and turn your mobile off.  Yoga nidra is usually practiced lying down (on the floor, on a mat or on top of the bed), but can also be practiced seated.  If lying down, you might like a bolster for under the knees and small pillow for under the head.  You may also like a cover for over the eyes.  Body temperature can drop during yoga nidra so it's important to be warm enough, I recommend cosy blankets and an extra pair of socks!

At the end of the session I will also help you cross the bridge back into your day, bringing the benefits of the practice with you.

Please get in touch with any queries about preparing for the practice or any other questions!