Yoga Nidra is an ancient relaxation technique that has incredible effects on the human mind and body. The Sanskrit term ‘nidra’ means ‘sleep’; it describes a state of consciousness between wakefulness and regular sleep. The mind stays completely aware whilst dropping into deeper states of rest, achieved through following a set of guided instructions.

This spoken guidance can be anything from a simple body scan, to an imaginative visualisation. The practitioner will traditionally lie in shavasana with the eyes closed, the invitation is to follow the voice of the teacher and travel deeper into the mind and body.

To some this may sound daunting, you may be confronted with some challenges along the way. An overactive mind distracting you from the practice, difficult emotions or simply falling asleep, but the work is so worth it! Beneath the fluctuations of the mind is a sense of deep peace waiting for you and this is where the magic happens… Through cultivating this peace and quiet we can slow down our brainwaves. We can learn to move our nervous systems away from anxiety and stress, towards repair and rejuvenation.

In our usual wakeful state, we experience BETA brainwaves (lots of brain activity) when we drop into deep relaxation, as experienced with Yoga Nidra, we shift to ALPHA brainwaves (relaxed awareness and increased learning). In this place the feel good chemical serotonin is released. Dropping even deeper we can experience THETA brainwaves (subconscious and creativity), this is said to be where emotional integration and release happen. Further still, it is said to be possible to reach DELTA (the slowest brainwaves) the same state as dreamless sleep. This is an incredibly simplified description of the science here, please explore further, it is fascinating stuff!

Whilst the brain slows down, we can also influence our nervous system. Within this complex network we have two opposing parts, the sympathetic and the parasympathetic nervous systems. The sympathetic nervous system’s primary function is to stimulate the body’s fight or flight response. When we experience something perceived to be a threat the body can move into survival mode. People who experience high levels of anxiety can find themselves in this state often, which can really affect quality of life.

In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system is described as the body’s place to rest and digest. Both parts play an essential role, however, fast paced lifestyles and high-pressured living has led us to an existence where chronic stress and burn out are common.

Through practicing Yoga Nidra we can train ourselves to feel safe in the present moment. We can turn our attention inwards and begin to learn our inner landscapes. As we relax, the body sends a message to the brain saying “all is well… no need for panic!” From here we can consciously let go of tension and open our hearts. It is in this place where deep rejuvenation and inner peace can be found.

Katie is holding a welcoming & empowering online Yoga Nidra & Evening Wind Down through Balance Garden on Tuesdays from 7.30-8.30pm