What is Yoga Nidra?
Yoga Nidra is a heightened state of awareness. It is a state of consciousness different from waking, sleeping or dreaming. It is a state of deep relaxation combined with acute awareness. In that state, a person can perceive the subtle flow of energy in the body and using this awareness, can remove blockages, support proper flow, and stimulate their own healing. In addition, the state of consciousness known as Yoga Nidra is a creative state. A person can consciously set into motion the forces of the universe to create a life of physical and emotional harmony. When properly practiced, Yoga Nidra is a tool for erasing negative samskaras (habits) and healing the karma that created it.
Yoga Nidra opens up a window into your soul and allows you to explore yourself through its reflective and restful techniques. In the half wakeful state of consciousness, you can explore the full length and breadth of your innermost self, whether it is emotional, physical, mental, or spiritual. It is the truest form of self-healing and is accessible to all regardless of body limitations or meditation experience.
Yoga Nidra is achieved through a fully guided meditation session that systematically relaxes the body and disconnects you from all 5 senses. Out of these, 4 are internalized and only hearing is used to follow the given instructions. It is usually done in sessions of 30 minutes to 45 minutes at a time.
My personal Yoga Nidra teacher, Dr. Marc Halpern, of California College of Ayurveda where I was certified, beautifully describes Yoga Nidra as:
“An extraordinary technique for both developing consciousnesses and for self-healing. In our deepest states of relaxation, the physiology of the body returns to a state of balance from which healing occurs. Yoga Nidra is not magic. It works within the laws of nature. Where healing is possible, Yoga Nidra will maximize the ability of the body and mind to heal itself. Yoga Nidra supports the immune system, the nervous system, the endocrine system, and all of the organs of the body. Yoga Nidra is an outstanding complementary approach to supporting the healing process of patients suffering from cancer, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, chronic fatigue, pain, and much more.”
To read more about the practice and history of Yoga Nidra, visit here.
