What is Yoga Nidra?
Yoga nidra is a special way to relax deeply. You might wonder how it’s different from meditation. Well, meditation includes lots of practices. You could say yoga nidra is a type of meditation, but it has some unique qualities. Here are five ways yoga nidra is different.
1. You Do Yoga Nidra Lying Down
One big difference is that, unlike most meditation, you do yoga nidra lying on your back. In yoga, this position is called savasana, and it’s been used for a very long time.
Lying down in savasana can be easier for beginners because it’s more comfortable than sitting cross-legged. It helps people relax more quickly and is great if you’re new to yoga nidra.
When you lie down, you might feel like falling asleep or get really close to it. This brings us to the next unique quality of yoga nidra.
2. Yoga Nidra Hovers on the Edge of Sleep
The word nidra means “sleep.” In yoga nidra, you try to stay right at the edge of falling asleep. Sometimes, you’ll even feel like you’re dreaming but are still awake enough to hear the instructor.
It’s normal to drift in and out of sleep during yoga nidra. You may find yourself coming back to awareness when you hear the guide’s voice.
Many yoga nidra instructors, including me, try to keep students in this in-between state because it’s perfect for deep relaxation. Scientists call this state the “hypnagogic state,” which happens just before you fall asleep.
3. Yoga Nidra is Active, Not Passive
Yoga nidra is also different because it involves following specific instructions. The guide might ask you to feel your breath, imagine certain scenes, or bring certain images to mind. These instructions help your mind relax in a certain way.
For example, if you imagine a calm lake, it makes you feel peaceful. If you think of something exciting, you might feel energized. The guide’s words affect how you feel.
Unlike regular meditation, where you usually focus on one thing, yoga nidra keeps you actively engaged with the guide’s words and images.
Also read:- Full Cobra Pose: Benefits & Steps for Young Yogis
4. Yoga Nidra Requires Guidance
Most meditation can be done on your own. You usually just need to remember a few simple instructions. But yoga nidra has many steps and needs a guide’s voice to keep you on track.
It’s hard to do yoga nidra alone because the instructions are complex, and you might fall asleep without guidance. If you stay awake and remember the instructions, you can guide yourself, but most people prefer following a guide.
5. Yoga Nidra Uses Western Relaxation Techniques
Although yoga nidra is part of yoga, it shares some methods with relaxation techniques developed in the West. Yoga nidra, as we practice it today, was created by an Indian yoga teacher named Swami Satyananda in the 1960s. He used ancient yoga ideas and some modern relaxation techniques.
How Yoga Nidra Fits In
Yoga nidra has unique qualities, but it also works well with other yoga practices like poses, breathing exercises, and energy work. Think of yoga nidra as a special way to relax deeply.
You can do yoga nidra anytime, as long as you haven’t just eaten. Many people like doing it alongside other yoga practices to get the most benefits.
FAQs about Yoga Nidra
What is yoga nidra?
Yoga nidra is a deep relaxation technique where you lie down and follow a guide’s voice. It’s sometimes called “yogic sleep” because it helps you relax at the edge of sleep.
How is yoga nidra different from meditation?
Unlike regular meditation, where you usually sit still and focus on one thing, yoga nidra is done lying down. It involves specific instructions and images that help you relax deeply.
Can I do yoga nidra if I’m a beginner?
Yes! Yoga nidra is beginner-friendly because it’s done lying down, which is more comfortable than sitting for most people. It’s great for anyone new to yoga or meditation.
Will I fall asleep during yoga nidra?
You might! In yoga nidra, you try to stay at the edge of sleep, which is a very relaxed state. It’s normal to drift in and out of sleep, but the guide’s voice helps bring you back to awareness.
Do I need a guide to practice yoga nidra?
Yes, it’s best to follow a guide, especially at first. Yoga nidra has many steps, and the guide’s voice helps you stay on track. It’s easy to lose focus or fall asleep without guidance.
What does ‘nidra’ mean?
“Nidra” is a Sanskrit word that means “sleep.” In yoga nidra, you try to reach a very relaxed state that feels like sleep but with some awareness.
How long does a yoga nidra session last?
Most yoga nidra sessions last between 20 and 45 minutes. Even a short session can leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
What should I wear for yoga nidra?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Since you’ll be lying down and staying still, it’s important to feel cozy and relaxed in what you’re wearing.
Can I do yoga nidra at any time of day?
Yes, you can do yoga nidra at any time, as long as you haven’t just eaten. Some people like to do it in the morning to start their day relaxed, while others enjoy it before bed.
Does yoga nidra help with stress?
Yes, yoga nidra can be very effective for reducing stress. The deep relaxation helps calm the mind and body, making it easier to manage stress in daily life.