Deeply Relaxed Yet Fully Aware- Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra is a type of guided meditation that allows us to remain aware while we enter the dream and sleep states of consciousness.  This may sound tricky but the technique is actually very practical and accessible to all.  Because we lie in a comfortable position (also known as the yoga pose savasana) for the duration of the practice of yoga nidra rather than participating in the other more technical and physically demanding yoga poses, people of all ages, fitness levels and health statuses can participate.

Yoga nidra is said to allow us to relax our nervous systems in the most powerful way to humans without the use of chemical agents.  If that alone isn’t enough to convince you to try it, here are some other benefits. The practice of yoga nidra:

Decreases stress and anxiety, decreases symptoms of PTSD, chronic pain and chemical dependency.

Increases feelings of peace, calm and clarity, increases awareness and focus.

Transforms negative habits, behaviors and ways of thinking.

There are several components of a full yoga nidra meditation.  While this week’s classes will still be hot vinyasa yoga, I will incorporate one or two components of yoga nidra.  Our nervous systems will be grateful!