Why prepare for Yoga Nidra

BY Arora Indu3 min read • February 6, 2023

We live in a world that creates waves. Whether it's driving in traffic, an energizing conversation with a friend, or a pleasant meal, we still need to clear the path for the realization of consciousness.

The state of Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep, is a state of realization the bridge between meditation and Samadhi. As most of us live as householders, we live in a world that creates waves.

Whether it's driving in traffic, an energizing conversation with a friend, or a pleasant meal, we still need to clear the path for the realization of consciousness.

Why Prepare?

The purpose of pre-practices prior to Yoga Nidra is to relieve the body of muscular and mental tensions that create obstacles to practice. Kriyas cleanse the body at the physical (metabolic waste) and energetic (dosha and nadi) levels, pacifying the vikrutis of vata, pitta, and kapha in the joints, organs, tissues, channels, and layers of skin. This creates ease of breath and relaxation in concentration. By reducing or removing these barriers and promoting the free flow of prana, we create an environment within the body and mind that is conducive to reaching Yoga Nidra.

Once one is a regular practitioner of yoga nidra, it may be possible to condense one's pre-practices and still attain the state of Yoga Nidra, however, each practice is unique and it is of utmost importance that we continue to listen to the body's response during pre-practices to determine what the body and mind may need during that particular session. As you develop even deeper self-awareness through Yoga Nidra, you may recognize that you have a greater sense of interoception (you will be more and more in tune with your body) and are more likely to notice signs of parasympathetic response, signs of relaxation, sooner.

Stay (at)tuned (to your own body)!

Suggested Reading: Why Yoga Nidra? - Read more here

PREPARE FOR YOGA NIDRA WITH THESE THREE PRACTICES

Relax your Senses

Deep Tissue Relaxation

Guided Relaxation