Make peace with yourself with Yoga Nidra

Steps to experience Yoga Nidra

Shantiasana — peaceful relaxation pose. Wear loose cloths, preferably cotton clothes. Lie down on your back in ‘shantiasana’, peaceful relaxation pose. You can place a soft pillow under your head. Make sure the pillow is not too hard or too soft. Keep the body loose, relaxed and in a straight position. Keep your legs relaxed and slightly away than your hip width distance. Drop your toes to the sides, so you relax the thighs and pelvis. Place your hands near body and palms facing upwards. Let your arms not touch your armpit. Close your eyes gently. If you’re practicing during day time then use an eye pillow or a soft towel to cover your eyes. You might want to cover your body with a thick or thin blanket to keep your body warm. Adjust your buttocks to your comfort and draw your shoulder blades down and relaxed. Keep your chin slightly towards your chest to help relax your neck. You may also use a pillow under your knees to relieve any back strain. Once you adjust your position, be still and relaxed. Take 3 deep breaths. Imagine your breath is so deep that it is spreading throughout your whole body. As you exhale, feel grounded and more relaxed.

Attention to your beautiful self
Once you are comfortable in your relaxation position begin by saying to yourself ‘I will not move’ and ‘I will be still’. Once you become relaxed and still, then say to yourself ‘I shall relax deeply but I do not sleep.”
Now recognise each and every part of your beautiful self. Turn you attention to the most unique body of yours and the parts of yours that are functioning incredibly than anything material. You pay attention to every part of your body makes you experience your brain releasing amazing magnetic waves spreading throughout your being. You will be filled with unconditional love, endless peace and tranquility.
Think of relaxing your whole body from the top or your head to the tip of your toes. Once again say to yourself ‘I will not sleep, I will not sleep, I will not sleep’ and be awake, but relaxed in mind and body.
(Continued next week)