15-minute Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep) with Sandhiya

What is yoga nidra?

Yoga Nidra is a form of guided meditation also known as “yogic sleep” or “effortless relaxation”. It’s usually practiced lying down with a teacher guiding the session. The practice draws our attention inwards, and we learn to glide between the states of wakefulness and sleep, where our body finds its natural state of equilibrium (homeostasis) – the breath balances and becomes quiet, unconscious and conscious aspects of the mind reveal themselves, and we fall into an innate state of deep, blissful awareness.

As we rest here, we can turn our attention easily and effortlessly to the very nature of awareness and consciousness. We start to experience the ‘deeper’ features of yogic teachings that previously we perhaps considered intangible, such as feeling our interconnected wholeness and becoming aware of our true, unified nature – expansive, inclusive, and deeply restful. 

Yoga Nidra takes us effortlessly into a state of harmonious, restful being. From here, we can be healed, restored and awakened to our deepest, all-knowing, all-welcoming self. It’s a sublime practice, gaining popularity the world over, and ongoing research continues to prove its effectiveness.

SIDE NOTE: This practice can be difficult for the individuals who favor a more hyper-aroused nervous system state (flight/flight). Please know this takes practice and conscious awareness to notice when you are feeling either bored, aggitated, or restless. Our suggestion would be to dip into this practice slowly. Maybe a couple of minutes at first and then work your way up through the entire class.

---

Related Content