Restorative Yoga Nidra
with Melanie
with Melanie
Yoga Nidra, also known as yogic sleep, is a form of guided meditation that promotes deep relaxation and is practiced lying down. The practice facilitates a state of consciousness that borders between waking and sleeping, aiming to induce a profound state of physical, mental, and emotional relaxation.
Here's how a typical Yoga Nidra session is structured:
Preparation: This involves setting up a comfortable space where you can lie down undisturbed, typically on a yoga mat with supportive cushions.
Sankalpa (Intention): At the beginning of the session, you're encouraged to set a personal intention or resolve, which helps to direct the energy of the practice.
Body Scan: The instructor guides you through a systematic scan of the entire body, inviting awareness to different parts and encouraging relaxation of each area.
Breath Awareness: You are guided to notice the natural flow of breath and sometimes to engage in specific breathing techniques, which can help focus the mind and deepen relaxation.
Opposites and Visualization: This stage involves guided visualization of opposite sensations (like hot and cold), feelings, or images. It is intended to work with subconscious emotions and patterns.
Visualization: There may be guided visualizations of peaceful places or healing journeys, depending on the specific goals of the session.
Closing: The session gradually concludes, often revisiting the initial intention and slowly bringing you back to a waking state.
The practice is accessible to people of all ages and physical abilities. It has been found beneficial in reducing stress, anxiety, and pain, improving sleep quality, and enhancing overall well-being.