Nidra Yoga can be used to improve memory and cognition, enhance focus, release emotions and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can also be used to treat PTSD and physical pain. Recent studies show that survivors of sexual trauma greatly benefited from this practice.
Nidra Yoga is one of the oldest primoradial systems in the world and embodies the five dimensions of individual existence; the physical body, the memory body, the energetic body, higher consciousness, and bliss body. These aspects of self can be greatly impacted by stress and trauma causing havoc within the body. The body systems that are affected by stress are the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, endocrine, and lymphatic. The stress caused to these body systems can be alleviated using the protocols of Nidra Yoga.
The process of Yoga Nidra is to lie down on the floor facing up with hands by one’s side in Shavasana pose. The Yoga Nidra process follows the guidance of the practitioner who carries out the methodology using script allowing the individual to drop into different states of consciousness. The script directs the individual to take a body scan, a process in which one experiences the state between wakefulness and sleep. The goal is to remain in a non-REM delta wave sleep without dropping into sleep.
The most notable effect immediately after experiencing NSDR is the feeling of rejuvenation and often described as similar to the feeling of a four-hour power nap. If one experiences disturbed or restless sleep it can be incorporated into the day and significantly improve functionality. This Non-Sleep Deep Rest practice can be done daily for between fifteen minutes to an hour for optimal results.