Home — World self-care & traditional therapies — Mind
Yoga nidra (yogic sleep)
योग निद्रा
A listing is not a recommendation.
Origin: India · Tradition: A guided yoga relaxation · Mind
What it is
A deep rest practice of lying down and, following guidance, bringing attention to each part of the body. It is not sleep itself, but is used to settle over-arousal.
A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)
- Lie on your back (or in another comfortable position) in a quiet place, and use a reliable guided recording.
- It is all right if you fall asleep along the way.
- If trauma responses are strong, keep the eyes open, or stop.
Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice
- Stress or unease
- Sleeplessness
- Tiredness
Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)
C: Preliminary, small, or lower-quality studies, or mixed results. These notes should not be over-read
There is preliminary research on stress and sleep. Position it as a kind of relaxation method. Large, conclusive evidence is still limited.
Sources
- NCCIH: Relaxation Techniques: What You Need To Know
- NCCIH: Sleep Disorders and Complementary Health Approaches
Safety notes
Past trauma can be recalled. Strong sleepiness before driving.
If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.
Situations in which this is better avoided
- In acute, severe dissociation or psychiatric symptoms, only within a professional framework