What is Yoga Nidra?
What is Yoga Nidra?
If you've ever attended a Yoga Nidra class, you might have found yourself drifting between wakefulness and sleep, floating in that space where you’re still aware but deeply at rest. Maybe you've heard the term before but weren’t quite sure what it meant. So, let’s break it down simply.
Yoga Nidra, often called yogic sleep, is a guided meditation that takes you into a deep state of relaxation while maintaining awareness. It’s not about physically moving through yoga poses—it’s a still practice where you are guided through layers of consciousness, allowing the body to rest while the mind remains present.
So, What Happens in a Yoga Nidra Practice?
You lie down in a comfortable position (usually in Savasana) and allow yourself to be guided by voice. The practice moves through different stages, such as:
✅ Settling the Body – Finding comfort and allowing tension to release
✅ Setting an Intention (Sankalpa) – A positive affirmation or deep-seated intention
✅ Body Awareness (Rotation of Consciousness) – A guided journey through different parts of the body
✅ Breath Awareness – Noticing the rhythm of the breath, slowing everything down
✅ Imagery & Visualisation – Using guided imagery to deepen relaxation
✅ Returning & Integration – Gently coming back to a state of wakefulness
Throughout the practice, you may experience moments where you feel like you’ve drifted into sleep—but Yoga Nidra is unique because your awareness is still present beneath that restfulness. Even if you think you’ve “slept” through the session, your nervous system has received the benefits of deep rest.
The Science & Benefits of Yoga Nidra
One of the reasons Yoga Nidra is so powerful is because it allows the body and mind to move into a state of deep, conscious rest. Studies have shown that Yoga Nidra can:
✨ Reduce stress and anxiety – By activating the parasympathetic nervous system, it helps lower cortisol levels (stress hormone).
✨ Improve sleep quality – Many people who struggle with insomnia or restless sleep find it beneficial.
✨ Aid emotional processing – The practice creates space for subconscious healing.
✨ Enhance focus and clarity – Because it allows the mind to reset, many feel more focused after practising.
✨ Support nervous system regulation – Particularly helpful for those experiencing burnout or overwhelm.
Some say 30 minutes of Yoga Nidra is equivalent to 3–4 hours of sleep in terms of how deeply it restores the nervous system. While it’s not a replacement for sleep, it is a powerful tool for rest and recovery.
Why I Call My Class ‘REST’ Instead of Yoga Nidra
You might notice that on the schedule, my Yoga Nidra class is now called REST. It’s still exactly the same practice—it’s just a small shift in language to make it more accessible for those who may not be familiar with the term ‘Yoga Nidra.’ Many people think yoga means movement, but this is a different kind of practice—one that invites stillness, restoration, and deep relaxation.
So, if you see REST on the timetable, know that it’s your invitation to slow down, reset, and experience deep nourishment for your mind and body.
Who is Yoga Nidra For?
Absolutely everyone! There is no experience required. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned meditator, Yoga Nidra meets you exactly where you are.
It’s especially beneficial if you:
Struggle to switch off or unwind
Feel like your mind is always busy
Need a restful practice to complement your active yoga or workout routine
Experience high stress, anxiety, or trouble sleeping
Simply want to explore a deeper state of relaxation
Come and Experience It for Yourself
If you haven’t tried Yoga Nidra yet, I invite you to come along to a REST session and experience it for yourself. There’s no right or wrong way to practice—it’s simply an opportunity to be guided into deep rest and let your nervous system recharge.
Your body and mind will thank you for it. ✨