Yoga nidra has been experienced as "the" most powerful relaxation technique known to man. Yet, in yoga, it is used much more than that. The power of this technique is such that it is regularly used as a therapeutic technique to overcome pain, act on the deepest neurosis and even overcome disability in certain cases.
At its simplest level, it may be understood and practised as a way of total physical and mental relaxation. The advanced benefits can be reached with regular practice.
Although Yoga nidra is of great help to insomniacs because it stimulates sleep, it must be understood that Yoga Nidra itself is NOT sleep. At best, it can be described as “Sleep of Awareness”. In conventional “sleep”, we lose control of our senses. But if you seek the greatest benefits, you must transcend this feeling so that you can stimulate the mind in the desired manner and be in control.
If followed correctly, it has a tremendous soothing effect on the mind by freeing it from unresolved contradictions and tensions. It works on the states of mind that actually create and sustain inner conflict. Conflicts may be in the form of unresolved mental issues or even physical disability and disorders.
Yoga Nidra works very effectively on mental resolve, will power and resolutions. Many people testify to the unbelievable power and effectiveness of the resolution (“Sankalpa”) made during the practice of Yoga nidra.
Why? Because it acts at a dormant or subconscious level that we are not aware of. It is just like watering a seed planted deep down in the soil. Each time you water it, you stimulate its growth though you can’t see it. You see it only when it breaks through into the light. Similarly, yoga Nidra works at a subconscious level and you realize it only when it becomes part of your waking life.
In Yoga Nidra, your mind is first “scientifically disconnected” from the external surroundings and even from your physical body though well-researched techniques. These are the “awareness rotation” techniques that include sound rotation, body rotation, and breath rotation.
After this has been achieved, the mind is fed with subtle vibrations through Mantra and Visualization methods which reach the deepest and remotest areas of the brain and serve to massage them creating the desired effect.
It is impossible to EXPLAIN how these techniques work. To experience the benefits, you would have to be taught by a learned Yoga master. Personal interactions work best and I would strongly advise you to go ahead - armed with this knowledge - and find a learned practitioner of yoga Nidra.
If you can’t, I would suggest that you seriously evaluate the “Beginners Yoga course” which includes a full audio section of over 90 minutes of guided Yoga Nidra by the Master Swami Gurupremananda Saraswati himself.
To sum up – Yoga Nidra is a superlative relaxation tool. One hour of effective yoga nidra is equivalent to over 4 hours of sleep.
But, the true purpose of yoga nidra goes well beyond deep relaxation. Yoga Nidra establishes the link between the conscious desires, the will power, the subconscious and the unconscious mind. When this happens you reap all-round powerful benefits and feel in total control of all aspects of your life.
All the best,
Arun Goel
Over a month, the number of strokes per minute can be gradually increased from11 to about 30.
Wondering what this amazingly simple method can do for you?
The heat generated has POWERFUL effects on the respiratory system as it purifies the nasal passage and the lungs. Even in cases of asthma, it removes spasm in bronchial tubes.
Kapalbhati works wonders on the mind – you will feel totally de-stressed and should experience a unique calmness with this process.
The mind becomes remarkably clear. Regular practice will lead you to higher levels of awareness.
The physical benefits include a tremendous stimulation of the digestive organs and the circulatory system.
This technique increases exchange of gases in the lungs manifold. There is large-scale elimination of Carbon dioxide and a huge absorption of oxygen.
Do this technique regularly (once or twice a day) and you’ll be truly amazed at the results of this purification method. It is really one of the ONLY methods to clear the mind of toxins and negative emotions.
And…please don’t forget to send in your feedback. It’s always great to know when you’re benefiting.
Yours truly,
Arun Goel