YOGA NIDRA: HOW IT WORKS + 20 Minute practice
Yoga Nidra, commonly referred to as "yogic sleep," is a technique for guided meditation and relaxation that produces a deep level of relaxation and conscious awareness. Physical, emotional, and mental relaxation are all stages of this systematic practise, which takes the practitioner through them all. The ability to enter the subconscious mind and concentrate on personal development and healing makes yoga nidra a potent instrument for profound transformation.
A yoga nidra session involves the participant lying down in a comfortable posture while being led through a sequence of visual cues and vocal instructions to help them become more aware of their body, breath, and inner world. The exercise includes mindfulness practises, body scans, and deep breathing.
Yoga nidra is well known for its many advantages, which include lowering stress and anxiety, enhancing general wellbeing, enhancing attention and concentration, and enhancing the quality of sleep. For those suffering from trauma, stress-related ailments, or bodily or emotional anguish, it is frequently utilised as a supplemental therapy.
Yoga nidra is a useful method for lowering anxiety and tension. To utilise yoga nidra to relieve tension and anxiety, follow these steps:
Find an area that is peaceful and quiet where you may rest for 20 to 30 minutes without being disturbed.
Close your eyes, spread your arms and legs out slightly, and lie on your back with your hands facing up.
Release any tension or stress you may be experiencing by taking a few deep breaths.
Follow a guided meditation or recording that leads you through the many phases of relaxation to start the yoga nidra practise; the practise is provided below as a reference.
Imagine a serene and tranquil setting, like a beach or a forest, and pay close attention to your breathing and physical sensations.
Allow yourself to completely unwind and let go of any anxieties or thoughts that may pop into your head.
Repeat to yourself affirmations of success like "I feel peaceful and at peace," or "I'm letting go of my stress and worry."
Finish the exercise by taking a few deep breaths and gradually becoming aware of your surroundings before standing up.
You can improve your general well-being, lower stress and anxiety, and get better sleep by consistently doing yoga nidra.
To use yoga nidra for profound transformation, follow these steps:
Set an intention for your practise (a "sankalpa"; see below). This could be a personal objective or aim for change, such as giving up a bad habit or behaviour, establishing self-acceptance, or adopting a good outlook.
Close your eyes and lie down in a relaxed position with your arms and legs slightly apart.
You can experience the many stages of relaxation, including physical, emotional, and cerebral relaxation, by following a guided yoga nidra meditation.
Imagine yourself undergoing a shift and growing as you unwind. To strengthen your intention and encourage your shift, use uplifting affirmations and imagery.
Throughout the practise, give yourself permission to feel whatever feelings, thoughts, or sensations that come up. Accept them without condemnation and seize the chance to develop and learn from them.
After the practise, take some time to consider your experience. Think about writing in your journal about any realisations or changes you underwent during the practise.
You can access your inner wisdom and make beneficial changes in your life by frequently doing yoga nidra with a focus on deep transformation. It can be a potent tool for personal development, healing, and self-discovery.
FORMING A POSITIVE ATTITUDE (SANKALPA)
Sankalpa is a term, from the Sanskrit language that refers to an intention or heartfelt desire. It holds significance in the practice of yoga nidra, where it serves as a declaration that guides your thoughts and energies towards achieving your goals.
In the realm of yoga nidra sankalpa is often used as a tool for manifestation and transformation. It involves repeating a statement to yourself either aloud or silently during the practice focusing on aspects of your life such as health, relationships, career, spirituality, or personal growth.
For your Sankalpa to be effective it should come from the depths of your heart and align with your core values. Expressing it as if it has already come true and framing it in a which resonates with you. Whether you choose an intricate sankalpa doesn't matter long as it comes from your heart and inspires action towards achieving your desired outcome.
When practising yoga nidra vocalising your Sankalpa can help synchronise your mind with your objectives and aspirations. By utilising this technique, you can bring about transformations, in all aspects of life by letting go of limiting beliefs overcoming detrimental habits and dispelling self-doubt.
On the final Sunday of each month, join me for a long yoga nidra followed by a practise of yin yoga. Since I am teaching from home, there are only a few spots available in person. Online is also available.
Gem x
