Our bodies are basically a “dump site.” What do I mean by this, you ask?

We stuff emotions into our bodies like stuffing trash under our sink. We think out-of-sight, out-of-mind. This is true to a certain extent … EXCEPT, our body is not, and should not be, a dumping ground!

When we take all our emotions – fear, worry, anxiety, grief, anger, rage, jealousy, thoughts of worthlessness (you know where I’m going with this, don’t you?) – then stuff them in the body and suppress them, eventually they damage our bodies.

That’s why we, in the mind/body world, talk about moving your body every day to get these feelings and emotions out before you explode (at others) or implode (get sick). Of course, there are many other causes of illnesses (think virus), but not having a good clean container (your body) is not helpful when you do get sick from some outside virus.

Bessel van der Kolk, a psychiatrist and researcher on trauma, even named one of his latest books telling us this very thing, called The Body Keeps the Score.

So, why do Yoga Nidra?

Yoga Nidra quiets and calms, soothes and rests the body on a very deep level. How does this relate? When you think Yoga Nidra, think about cleaning the “dump site” and getting rid of the trash.

That is why some people feel clean and even have a lot of energy immediately and with lasting effects. Some people report that while they still have their problems, they are easier to tackle because they don’t seem so big anymore.

July Yoga Nidra Class Survey Results

For those that take my Yoga Nidra class, I ask questions afterward so that I know what is working or not working.

• 45% of the July class have attended Yoga Nidra 2 to 5 times.
• Of the immediate benefits felt, everyone reported feelings of calm/peace and all but one said physical relaxation. Half the class also selected clarity of thoughts.
• In addition, there were reports of less food cravings and less stress.
• Subsequent benefits felt most often included improved sleep, feelings of inner satisfaction, feelings of joy/peace and less stress and anxiety.
• In addition, one person said she felt more mindful and made better choices for 24 hours.
• All attendees said they would participate in Yoga Nidra again.

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