Friday Night Nidra

Join Nissa every Friday night at The Listening Wellness Center in Barre for a 90 minute Nidra practice.

Yoga Nidra is a profound technique that guides practitioners into a state of deep relaxation while maintaining a state of awareness. The term ‘Yoga Nidra’ is derived from two Sanskrit words: ‘yoga,’ meaning union or integration, and ‘nidra,’ meaning sleep. In this practice, we aim to achieve a state of conscious relaxation, where the body and mind are completely at ease, yet the consciousness remains active.

During a Yoga Nidra session, practitioners are guided through a systematic process of relaxation, often starting with physical relaxation techniques such as gentle stretching and breath awareness. As the practice progresses, attention is directed to different parts of the body, allowing for a deep release of tension and stress.

One of the key aspects of Yoga Nidra is the rotation of awareness, where attention is systematically brought to different parts of the body, stimulating a state of deep relaxation and promoting a sense of wholeness and integration. This rotation of awareness helps to quiet the mind and release stored tension, allowing practitioners to experience a profound sense of relaxation and inner peace.

Throughout the practice, participants are encouraged to remain aware and attentive, cultivating a sense of witness consciousness or ‘sakshi bhava.’ This witnessing awareness allows practitioners to observe thoughts, sensations, and emotions without attachment or judgment, fostering a sense of inner stillness and tranquility.

As the session comes to a close, practitioners are gently guided back to a state of wakefulness, feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and deeply rested. With regular practice, Yoga Nidra can help to reduce stress, improve sleep, enhance concentration, and promote overall well-being, making it a valuable tool for self-care and inner transformation.