Yoga Nidra for Better Sleep

Photo Credit: Cassandra Hamer for Unsplash

Deep rest can be elusive.  As we move away from the busyness of the summer months, there is a natural transition into restfulness.  All things in nature prepare for the hibernation of the long winter nights ahead.

But as plugged in as we are these days, getting good sleep can be difficult.  Yoga Nidra, which means Yogic Sleep, is the practice of rest.  It can teach our systems how to unwind from the day and prepare for sleep.

Yoga Nidra is an important tool we use at the end of every yoga class, but it can also be practiced on its own.  Here, I offer you a half-hour of blissful guided relaxation to prepare you for better sleep.

I recommend that you use this recording at the end of every workday, as a way to transition to the restful time you dedicate to yourself at the end of the day.  Sunset is a powerful time to practice yoga, according to Ayurveda (Yoga’s sister science), and can align your body and mind with the peaceful energy that night brings.

However, you can also use this recording just before bed, to prepare yourself for better sleep.  In that case, rather than following the prompts at the end of the Yoga Nidra practice to gradually bring yourself to a seated position, stay lying down and just drift off into a blissful slumber.

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Want to learn how to relax even more?  Join us for yoga in the evenings - online or in person - and learn how regular practice can improve the quality of your sleep.