As most of you know, Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation that has many different components which are packed into a 30-45 min session.

I like to think of Yoga Nidra as an act of self-care; working towards self-preservation or even better yet, the ability of helping yourself to do some really good medical management.

We know from all the recent studies about yoga that some amazing things are going on to benefit your body and your brain when you practice yoga. That alone is significant! Yoga Nidra, like Yoga, can be dosed just like medicine to get some of the benefits of increasing gray matter, changing up the structure of your brain … for the better! And, of course, don’t forget letting oxytocin (an amazing neurotransmitter) slide through your body.

What is Oxytocin and what does it do?

Oxytocin is a hormone that is made in the brain, specifically, the hypothalamus. It is secreted by the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain. Known as the ‘love hormone,’ it helps you relax and helps reduce blood pressure.

“Studies have shown how oxytocin is involved in social bonding and the formation of generosity, and the reduction of fear within one’s self and between others.”

April Yoga Nidra Class Survey Results

For those that take my Yoga Nidra class, I always ask questions afterward. This helps me to know what is working or not working. This is a brief summary of what participants said.

• More than half of those that responded have been to a Yoga Nidra class anywhere from 2 to 5 times, and for almost one-quarter of the class, it was the first time.
• The two most immediate benefits seen included physical relaxation and feelings of calm/peace with a couple of people experiencing less pain and clarity of thought. One person said the next day at work she was complimented on looking more relaxed.
• On the days following the Nidra (when asked about residual benefits), 77% noted improved sleep and 46% noted stress reduction. Other benefits included relief from anxiety, less fatigue and feelings of inner satisfaction/balance/peace.
• Everyone said they would be interested in attending additional Yoga Nidra practices.

If you have a specific health concern, I would be happy to discuss this with you one-on-one.

Are you ready to try a Yoga Nidra class? I hold classes once a month at the Sastun Center of Integrative Health. Check out the class schedule.