.....sleep your way to change

Yogis,

I have always wanted to be able to speak two languages. I find it so intriguing that the mind can have the same thoughts using two completely different sets of words. I would love to know what that feels like.

Growing up I remember hearing that if you listened to language tapes as you were falling asleep you could become fluent in that language (never actually tried). I also knew it was best to do your final studying right before bed (this I did). The idea being that new thoughts are imprinted differently in the period of drifting off to sleep and that they are bound to stick.

As an adult I discovered the powerful yogic practice which uses this same process to create lasting change in our lives. It is called Yoga Nidra….. 

Yoga nidra translates to yogic sleep. The entire practice is done lying on the floor on the back (ok, count me in!) For the next 30 to 60 minutes an instructor guides you on a mind journey through the parts of the body, breathing, various images and visualizations. Your only effort is to remain still, aware and follow the voice.

What happens is a very deep relaxation. Not only the body, but the mind and the emotions……all places that hold tension. In a typical night’s sleep, we often fall asleep but don’t truly relax. In fact, one hour of yoga nidra is said to be as restorative as four hours of sleep. 

As the body relaxes and the mind continues following the voice, the brain waves slow. There is a sensation of drifting in and out of consciousness. Somehow asleep, yet following instructions. Although still aware we begin operating more from the subconscious mind. Our place of receptivity. A fertile soil for new ways of thinking, being, living.

So yes, yoga nidra feels absolutely blissful, but the real power lies in what we sow in the soil. At the beginning of the practice you are asked to mentally repeat a resolve to yourself. An intention. A short simple statement in the positive and in the present that represents what it is that you want to create. The change you desire. For example, ‘I am courageous’. Or ‘I am patient. ‘I live in abundance’. ‘I release fear of the future’. And then at the end you state it to yourself again with heartfelt feeling and conviction.

The practice of yoga nidra is gaining popularity as we all look for ways to release the tensions that our current way of living brings. Many of the newer diseases have their roots in the thoughts, worries and tension backpack we carry. Stress has become second nature. Here is a practice that unwinds all of that.

I am thrilled to now be teaching it here locally with my first workshop next Sunday at Washington Yoga Center. But there are classes springing up everywhere. Give it a try! Create change while you sleep!

Just try not to snore too loud……..

Om,
SARAH