Yoga nidra, or conscious sleep as it is also known, is one of the most important practices of yoga. A powerful practice to release tensions from the deepest layers of the body-mind and is easy to develop and regularly practice.
Almost everyone loves yoga nidra and this ancient practice has become increasingly popular in the last seven years. Why? Is it because we love relaxation or the feeling of having returned to ourselves and feeling a sense of wholeness again or is it in the many benefits that can be experienced?
There is more to yoga nidra than relaxation. Relaxation is both a normal function of the nervous system and also a skill that can be learned. Beneath the ups and downs of everyday life there is a profound state of balance. By resting for brief periods in that state we create a resilient and stable mind even in the face of stress.
During yoga nidra you will find a new and present experience of yourself where areas of your being which have been forgotten are called to life again. Yoga nidra quietens the senses and lead us beneath the restless surface of the mind. While the popular use of yoga nidra is for relaxation, sleep deprivation, recuperation from stress and healing from illness, it can offer you much more than this. A resource for healing, developing insight and empowerment.
Although the literal translation is yogic sleep, yoga nidra can be better understood as conscious sleep. It is a paradox where the physical body is resting and yet at the same time you are following the voice of the teacher and in a fully awakened state, thus resting in awareness.
Yoga nidra is a precious and ancient meditation technique that enables you to relax deeply and to become more aware of the subconscious mind. Yoga nidra is an easy and effective form of meditation that creates a bridge between conscious awareness and your subconscious mind. It is a tool for tapping into the strengths and talents that usually lie hidden within you, buried under old patterns.
Yoga nidra is thus a vital part of the whole cleansing process that is yoga. Within the practice of yoga nidra there is the option to use sankalpa. Sankalpa is a resolve formed into a statement of intent which is repeated at the beginning and end of yoga nidra. It is planting a seed for positive change deep into the relaxed and receptive mind when the subconscious mind is receptive and sensitive to autosuggestion.
Start using yoga nidra to experience profound relaxation, recuperation and healing benefits.