Kennebec Neighbors Adult Education

Introduction to Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra, also known as “yogic sleep”, is a form of guided meditation that offers profound relaxation and healing. Unlike traditional meditation, Yoga Nidra is usually practiced lying down, allowing the practitioner to find a state of deep rest under the guidance of a teacher. Through this practice, one navigates the delicate balance between wakefulness and sleep, achieving a state where the body reaches homeostasis, the breath stabilizes, and both the conscious and unconscious mind harmonize.

How Yoga Nidra Works

During a Yoga Nidra session, the teacher guides the practitioner into a state of deep relaxation through a series of instructions and visualizations. This process draws attention inwards, away from external distractions, and helps the practitioner to travel through different layers of consciousness. As the body relaxes, the mind becomes a witness to its own internal processes, unveiling a state of deep, blissful awareness.

Benefits of Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra offers an array of benefits including:

·      Stress Reduction: By promoting relaxation, it helps reduce anxiety and stress levels.

·      Improved Sleep: Regular practice can lead to better sleep quality and reduced insomnia.

·      Enhanced Creativity: It can unlock creative potential by tapping into the subconscious mind.

·      Emotional Healing: It offers a safe space for emotional release and healing.

·      Physical Relaxation: Deeply relaxes the body, aiding in muscle recovery and reducing chronic pain.

Preparing for a Yoga Nidra Session

To fully immerse yourself in a Yoga Nidra session, it’s important to prepare your space and gather the necessary props. Here are some tips to ensure a comfortable practice:

·      Yoga Mat: Lay down a yoga mat to provide a soft surface for your practice.

·      Pillow: Use a pillow to support your head and neck.

·      Bolster or Pillow for Under Your Knees: Place a bolster or pillow under your knees to relieve lower back tension.

·      Light Blanket: Have a light blanket to keep warm, as body temperature may drop during relaxation.

The Session

During the session, you will be in savasana (corpse pose) for about an hour. It’s crucial to find a position where you are comfortable and can remain still, allowing yourself to fully surrender to the practice.

Participating in Yoga Nidra

Participants can choose to attend the sessions on Thursday afternoons or evenings, possibly three sessions available in the afternoon and three in the evening. Participants have the flexibility to sign up for just one session or commit to all six, depending on their schedule and interest.

Each session provides an opportunity to deepen your practice and experience the transformative effects of Yoga Nidra