Yoga Nidra for Ultimate Relaxation and Self-Transformation
by Fabienne C. Grossman, RD/LD, 200-RYT A
s individuals, we often hold tension in our minds and bod- ies which can result in mental
and physical fatigue. Yoga Nidra, an ancient yoga practice that has re- cently gained popularity, helps act as a remedy to this growing issue. Literally meaning “yogic sleep”, Yoga Nidra is a form of meditation and mind-body therapy. One appears to be asleep, but the consciousness is functioning at a deeper level of awareness. Rod Stryker, Founder of ParaYoga and instructor of Yoga Nidra since the mid-1990s, states, “It is sleep with a trace of awareness.” One experiences a deep relaxation state that is achieved by systematically slowing down and relaxing each body part. Students experience a more restful state and awaken more refreshed than an evening of sleep. During Yoga Nidra, students are led through a guided meditation to scan the body and then given techniques to be- come aware of and let go of the mental and physical tensions that are present in different areas of the body. This tech- nique enables the body to slow down, allowing for optimal functioning of the endocrine and the parasympathetic
nervous system. Yoga Nidra, therefore, may be highly beneficial for people suf- fering from stress, insomnia, migraine, asthma, ulcers, digestive issues, skin diseases and other conditions. In the November 2011 issue of Yoga
Journal, Cheryl LeClair, a yoga instructor teaching Yoga Nidra Meditation Tech- nique for marines with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and brain injuries at Camp LeJeune, has met with great success. “Many of them fall asleep in the very first session,” says LeClair. “To see them relax and let go is just amazing.” In addition to total relaxation, Yoga
Nidra gives one the potential to access the power of the subconscious mind in order to gain knowledge, increase creativ- ity, and realize their true self. A Sankalpa or resolution is created by each individual on their own while in a state of deep relaxation. The Sankalpa is a short, posi- tive affirmation mentally repeated while sinking into this deeply relaxed state. Sankalpa may be something one wants to happen in their life, an affirmation that is then implanted deep in the subconscious mind. It takes root and grows long after the Yoga Nidra practice itself is finished. The subconscious mind is much more
receptive than the conscious logical mind: resolutions planted in the subcon- scious mind will more readily grow and enrich one’s life positively. Yoga Nidra can be practiced by
anyone. It brings calmness, quietness and clarity which leads to awareness on many levels. When one is in a conscious, relaxed state, peace of mind comes naturally and the individual’s overall well-being improves.
Fabienne C. Grossman (200RYT) is the owner of Weston Yoga and will be of- fering a Yoga Nidra Practice, Tues., Dec. 27, 7:30-9pm. Weston Yoga is located at 2600 Glades Circle, Ste. 400, Weston. For more information call 954.349.6868 or visit www.westonyoga. com. See ad page 62.
natural awakenings
December 2011
41
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