Dear insomniac, Yoga Nidra is for you. This age-old, yet little-known practice plunges its followers into a state of intense relaxation. Here, far from the image of dynamic yoga that makes you sweat on the mat, everything happens inside.
Yoga Nidra: definition
Although it is not the most popular, Yoga Nidra is one of the oldest yogas. However, it was only theorized in 1962 by the yogi Swami Sahyananda. Also called "sleep yoga", it is practiced exclusively lying down in Savasana. The goal: to reach a state of maximum relaxation, halfway between wakefulness and sleep. To do this, the teacher can use meditation, breathing or visualization. The effects are felt on the physical, emotional and spiritual levels.
The benefits of Yoga Nidra
Because its practice is still, Yoga Nidra relaxes the body, mind and spirit in depth. It stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps fight stress. The session brings the practitioner into a state comparable to hypnosis . The doors of creativity and intuition are then easier to cross. In addition, as its name suggests, Yoga Nidra improves the quality of sleep and reduces the risk of insomnia. You therefore regain your vitality and energy.
Yoga Nidra: for whom?
As you will have understood, there is no asana in a Yoga Nidra class. This particularity makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of physical condition. It is the ideal practice for people who suffer from sleep disorders (insomnia, night awakenings, etc.). But also for those who seek to find deep serenity by diving into their unconscious.
To go further
I highly recommend the Yoga Nidra recorded by Philippe Beer Gabel ! This teacher who trained me in Yin yoga is also an expert in yoga nidra. Good practice!