Did you know that yoga nidra has been around for over five thousand years, predating even the modern yoga trend? According to Sri Dharma Mittra, a guru with six decades of practice in Lower Manhattan, yoga nidra may even predate yoga itself. In the past, people understood the importance of placing the body in a state of rest to promote healing and restoration. Early yoga sessions often ended with short intervals of rest, eventually evolving into longer relaxation periods with the use of bells to keep practitioners in a semi-conscious state.
Dr. Salas recommends yoga nidra to patients dealing with anxiety or insomnia as part of their bedtime routine. She suggests finding a soothing guided meditation on YouTube or practicing a breathing exercise to release worries and promote relaxation. Dr. Holliday-Bell prefers a simpler approach and would choose a nap over a yoga nidra session. However, Mittra describes a fascinating practice of concentration that involves visualizing the body as a telescope, repairing it through relaxation to access a deeper level of perception. This practice requires sustained effort and the ability to detach from the constraints of time and space.
Incorporating yoga nidra into your routine can have numerous benefits for both the body and mind. Whether you prefer a guided meditation, a breathing exercise, or a more concentrated practice, the key is to find what works best for you and commit to regular practice. Who knows, you may just uncover a whole new level of awareness and inner peace through the ancient practice of yoga nidra.
