Yoga Nidra: Conscious Relaxation

Yoga nidra, or yogic sleep, as it's called in Sanskrit, is a systematic relaxation practice. This guided meditation can be done seated or lying down. All you need to do is relax and listen. It's highly therapeutic and nourishing. When practiced regularly, facilitates deep healing of the mind and body.

The state of relaxation is similar to that of REM sleep, but unlike REM sleep, you're conscious enough to be partially aware of what is happening. The guided meditation usually includes several key components, including: gratitude, the setting of an intention, a body scan, breathwork and visualizations.

Yoga nidra is not about doing, but about feeling. The best way to understand the practice is to experience it. I invite you to pause and take 10 minutes for yourself. You'll be happy you did!

If you enjoy this 10-Minute Tune-Up, sign up to receive them directly in your inbox every week. Topics range from guided meditation like this one, to breathing techniques, posture tips, and chair yoga.

If you're interested in bringing sleep education to your office, we offer a workplace wellness presentation called Conscious Relaxation For Better Sleep. In this presentation, employees will learn:

• Current science about why we sleep and how to improve your own

• How to quiet your mind when your internal to-do list is on overdrive

• Yoga poses you can do right before bed, even IN bed, to help your body relax

• An introduction to yoga nidra, a guided meditation practice for deep rest

• A guided yoga nidra practice and take-home recording to use before bed

In health,

Katie

Unfold Co-Founder