Tag Archives: practice yoga

In Need of Yoga Nidra

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In today’s busy world

Yoga Nidra

, yogic sleep, may be the essential tool for rejuvenation.
I’m stretched out during my first 45-minute Yoga Nidra class, body cradled in a fully supported Savasana (Corpse Pose), limbs limp, breath quiet, thoughts drifting by. In the distance, the teacher’s voice blends with the sound of Tibetan bells. All traces of the day fade away, time stops, and stillness washes over me. So this is Yoga Nidra!

Also known as yogic sleep or sleep with awareness, Yoga Nidra is an ancient practice that is rapidly gaining popularity in the West. It is intended to induce full-body relaxation and a deep meditative state of consciousness. “We live in a chronically exhausted, overstimulated world,” says Los Angeles yoga teacher Rod Stryker.

“Yoga Nidra is a systematic method of complete relaxation, holistically addressing our physiological, neurological, and subconscious needs.”

During a typical class, teachers use a variety of techniques—including guided imagery and body scanning—to aid relaxation. And unlike a quick Savasana at the end of asana practice, Yoga Nidra allows enough time for practitioners to physiologically and psychologically sink into it—at least 20 to 45 minutes, says San Francisco Bay Area yoga teacher Jennifer Morrice.

The ancient yoga text the Mandukya Upanishads refers to four different stages of Yoga Nidra. The practitioner begins by quieting the overactive conscious mind, then moves into a meditative state, gradually finding a state of “ultimate harmony,” in which the brain waves slow down and a subtle euphoria emerges. Though most practitioners don’t slip easily into the more advanced stages, they still tend to emerge feeling rejuvenated. “Yoga Nidra uniquely unwinds the nervous system,” Stryker says, “which is the foundation of the body’s well-being.”

Yoga Nidra is best done under the guidance of a trained teacher, but not to worry if a class hasn’t arrived at your local studio. Teachers like Stryker, Shiva Rea, James Traverse, and Jnaneshvara Bharati, to name a few, now offer Yoga Nidra workshops and CDs. You can find these materials via an online search for Yoga Nidra and Nidra Yoga.

By Stephanie Levin-Gervasi

Yoga’s Advantages: Relaxation and Meditation

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Yoga’s Advantages: Relaxation and Meditation

Are you aware off yoga and meditation? Whenever we start something new we have a certain feeling of worry and uncertainty. Especially, when this new thing is the product of a much different culture. Your first impression determines if this new thing will be a part of your pastime again. Yoga has so many health advantages, on both a physical and mental levels, that it can be called a disappointing misunderstanding for anyone to miss out on them because they made any mistake on their first day. Put the case that you know enough about yoga as a kind of gymnastic. Let’s discuss some other advantages of yoga. Relaxation and meditation.

Let’s think about a mindful walk. People, thinking of meditation are usually too serious. Meditation is a natural practice for a human mind. You may think of something very serious and focused, but in sober fact the practice of meditation embraces a wide range of techniques you may try anytime, including many that are appropriate for a mid-day yoga break at work or at home. If you practice yoga you may combine your knowledge with meditation. Yoga and meditation are close to each other on their aims. To do a simple walking meditation, try to keep your mind in the present as you take a mindful walk around some place you know. The purpose is to enjoy the walk. Bringing yoga and meditation into coincidence with each other you can take a mindful walk around your own body.

If your work is concerned with computers, documents, or small objects that strain your eyes and make you to excessively concentrate, the described above meditation can help you to relax. Taking a break from the strenuous work is good for everyone. The yogic practice of withdrawing combines best sides of yoga philosophy and meditation. Close your eyes and move into yourself. This technique brings into a deep sense of peace. At the same time closing our eyes and calm breathing can protect eyes, calm your body, lower the blood pressure, and help you to concentrate for longer periods of time if you need.

If you like this amusement, try something of the sort. The teachers of yoga and meditation say you shouldn’t usually do the same sort of thing. If you prefer classical yoga meditation you also shouldn’t spend all your time in the meditation hall. The environment for your yoga and meditation lessons may be various. Prefer surrounding countryside, wood and seaside. You can stroll in the forest, observe the wildlife, canoe or swim in the lake and ride horses. Find the best way or change them as and when necessary.

Carole is the author of some web-blogs in Health category. You can find more interesting and useful information at Yoga And Meditation Blog and Ideal Weight Blog.

Introduction to Yoga Types, Philosophy & Practice

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Introduction to Yoga Types, Philosophy & Practice
Yoga is a powerful tool to help you blossom and reach your full human potential. The seeds are all within you, yoga is the water, the sunlight, the nutrients and the love they need in order to make… [...]

Yoga for Beginners: The First Step of Yoga Practice

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Yoga for Beginners: The First Step of Yoga Practice
Maybe your doctor, chiropractor, physical therapist, or best friend told you Yoga would be good for you. You have heard so much about Yoga; it seems that Yoga is a “cure” for almost anythi… [...]