Yoga Nidra - an introduction
- Mike Mansfield
- Apr 12, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 25, 2023

Yoga Nidra can be practiced by anyone.
It holds immense benefits for all those who struggle to let go, those who suffer from lack of sleep, trauma, burn-out, and anxiety. The practice of Yoga Nidra leads us into a state of harmonious, restful being.
In Yoga Nidra, the practitioner lies down comfortably, preferably in Shavasana, as that is naturally the most effortless and balanced resting position. But it is also very common and acceptable to lie down on the tummy or on the side. I will guide you through a detailed and specific script. At the beginning of the instructions, you are asked to set a Sankalpa, or make a resolution to yourself.
Check our audio explaining Sankalpa>>
You may have experienced a feeling when you are half asleep, and it strangely feels as if your brain is dozing. Such a state of consciousness, between being awake and being in sleep, is a state where Yoga Nidra may bring you. Yoga Nidra is a state of consciousness, in between sleep and awake. It is complete relaxation of the body, while the mind stays awake.
Yoga Nidra begins with relaxation but it goes much further. In Yoga Nidra relaxation of body, mind, and senses is very important but that is not the final goal. In Yoga Nidra, the consciousness is active while in an observing state. Even though the brain enters a deep relaxation state, you are observing the body, mind, and senses. During Yoga Nidra, try to stay focused on my instructions as we move our awareness to different parts of our body and sensations.
Note: In the beginning, the mind keeps wandering, but as we try to follow the instructions, we keep bringing the mind back to the practice. Slowly, with regular practice, we can stay with the instructions longer and longer and the mind starts to distract less and less.
Over time, we gain control of the mind by training it to follow and focus.
Note:
Let me know if there are any health concerns before practice.
Listen to your body.
Never continue with a session or a movement that gives any discomfort
See you at the practice!
Regina x.
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