Practice
What Is Yoga Nidra?
Yoga Nidra is 'yogic sleep' — a guided practice of deep relaxation done lying down and completely still. A teacher leads your attention through the body and bre
Yoga Nidra is 'yogic sleep' — a guided practice of deep relaxation done lying down and completely still. A teacher leads your attention through the body and breath while you rest at the edge of sleep but stay aware. It is deeply restful, often compared to a nap, and used to relieve stress, tension and fatigue.
Unlike seated meditation, Yoga Nidra is practised lying down in complete stillness. The voice guides you through a rotation of awareness around the body, breath and sensations, gradually settling the mind into a state between waking and sleep.
Many people find one session leaves them as refreshed as a much longer nap. It requires no flexibility or effort — just lying comfortably and following the guidance — which makes it accessible to almost everyone, including those who find sitting meditation difficult.
Frequently asked questions
- Is it okay to fall asleep during Yoga Nidra?
- Yes — it is common and not a problem. The aim is deep rest; with practice you will more often hover in the aware, restful state.
- How long is a Yoga Nidra session?
- Sessions typically run 15-45 minutes. Even a short practice can feel deeply restorative.
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