Yoga Nidra
The word nidra means "sleep" in Sanskrit, and yoga nidra is often referred to as "yogic sleep." Yoga nidra is a state of deep relaxation that is said to promote physical and mental well-being.
yoga nidra involves lying down in a comfortable position and focusing on the breath. The practitioner may also focus on a mantra or affirmation during the practice. yoga nidra is typically practiced for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
The practice is said to date back thousands of years and be beneficial for both the body and mind. There are five main stages of yoga nidra:
1. Pratyahara: This stage involves withdrawing the senses from the external world and focusing inward.
2. Dharana: In this stage, the practitioner focuses on a single point, such as the breath or a mantra.
3. Dhyana: This stage is sometimes referred to as “meditation in action” as the practitioner becomes fully absorbed in the object of focus.
4. Samadhi: This is the final stage of yoga nidra and is characterized by a sense of unity with the object of focus.
5. Prajna: This final stage is said to be a state of pure consciousness beyond thought and words.