Yoga Nidra translates to Yogic sleep in Sanskrit. Yoga Nidra is a meditation technique that induces a state of deep, but conscious relaxation, that isn’t found in your average meditation practice. It is a systematic form of guided meditation, typically practiced laying down for 30 to 45 minutes at a time. A systematic rotation of consciousness in the body works on balancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system, inducing many healing benefits. The stages include breath awareness, rotation of consciousness in the body, a clear intention (Sankalpa) and mindfulness techniques which works on guiding you to a state of complete non-doing.… more

Yoga Nidra is a practice of Yoga. Typically, Yoga includes physical poses (asanas), whereas Yoga Nidra is essentially a guided meditation, practiced laying down. Some classes will incorporate Yoga and Yoga Nidra together, or standing breath practices and Yoga Nidra.

The yogic goal of both paths, Yoga Nidra and Meditation are the same, a state of meditative consciousness called samadhi. In samadhi the mind becomes still. It is a state of being totally aware of the present moment; a one-pointedness of mind, where enlightenment, or bliss is attained. The sequence of mindfulness techniques guided through Yoga Nidra ensures that you move through deeper brainwave states from alpha to theta to delta. This is deeper than traditional mindfulness/meditation techniques. Yogis state that 45 mins of Yoga Nidra is as restorative as 3 hours of sleep.

Whilst there are some basic similarities between Yoga Nidra and Hypnosis the two are actually quite different. During Yoga Nidra the left and right side of the brain is in balance, whereas in Hypnosis there is a shift from the left side of the brain to the right side of the brain. Yoga Nidra does not depend on suggestion and persuasion, all changes happen spontaneously as a result of release of stress and tension and your own sankalpa/intention. The instructions are given directly and the only suggestion is contained in the sankalpa/intention. In Hypnosis relaxation does not have to take place to be effective. Deepest brainwave states theta to delta are recorded in Yoga Nidra, in Hypnosis brainwave states go only to theta. The purpose between the two differ. In Yoga Nidra there is no attempt to alter your character or programme you in any way – witnessing your thoughts and cultivating awareness to transcend thoughts leads you to the ultimate purpose to realise the truth of who you are and to go beyond to experience profound shifts. The purpose of Hypnosis is for therapeutic or transformative shifts in body and mind.

Yoga Nidra is yogic practice that’s becoming increasingly popular as both a form of meditation and a mind-body therapy. Yoga Nidra can help you to:

* restore and rejuvenate the mind and body
* boost the immune system
* reduce high blood pressure
* balance the automatic nervous system
* feel peace and calm
* release muscular, mental and emotional tensions
* awaken your creativity
* increase mental clarity and balance
* increase focus and greater concentration
* reduce anxiety and stress
* induce restful sleep
* slows aging
* release of melatonin, serotonin and GABA
* reduces effects of metabolic syndrome
* recharge and balance the chakra system
* lowers cholesterol
* improve digestion and blood sugar balance
* simulates the Pineal gland

Research suggests for lasting benefits: 20 minutes a day, twice a day, five times a week. Yoga Nidra can be practiced independently with an audio recording, or practiced with a teacher guiding students through its various stages in a class.

No experience required; all people welcome. Unless specified classes/workshops/series are for adults.

Note: Yoga Nidra is contraindicated for some mental health conditions. If you have any questions please check with your Yoga Nidra teacher as to whether medical clearance will be required prior to starting class/workshop/series.

Clothing should be loose and comfortable. During Yoga Nidra the body’s metabolic rate decreases, so body temperatures may drop, so participants may feel cold. Blankets are provided at studios.

It’s advisable not to practice Yoga Nidra on a full stomach. Three hours is suggested after a full meal, and two hours after a light meal.

You will still receive benefits while the unconscious mind is absorbing the practice. The aim is to remain awake whilst your body sleeps for a deeper practice.

Studios where classes are held will have mats, blankets and bolsters. If you have an eye pillow bring along.

Ideally, Yoga Nidra is practiced laying on the floor, in savasana (corpse pose) however if laying down is not an option please bring a comfortable seat. Camping seats seem to be easiest for transportation and comfortable.


All workshops, series and classes, are non-refundable but can be transferred to someone else if you can not attend, just email us the name of the person who is to take your place.

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