Yoga nidra, sometimes called yogic sleep, is a guided meditation practiced lying down. You stay still and comfortable while a voice, or your own memory of the steps, guides your attention through the body and breath.

Setting up

  • Lie on a mat or bed with a pillow or bolster under your knees.
  • Cover yourself with a light blanket, since the body cools as it rests.
  • Dim the lights and silence your phone.

A short practice

  1. Set an intention, a short positive phrase called a sankalpa.
  2. Move your attention slowly through the body: right hand, right arm, left hand, left arm, then down through the legs and feet.
  3. Follow ten slow breaths, counting down from ten to one.
  4. Notice opposite feelings, such as heavy and light or warm and cool.
  5. Return to your intention, then slowly wiggle your fingers and toes.

Gentle tips

If you drift off, that is okay. Many people enjoy following a recorded voice at first. For a seated companion practice, try a body scan.

Meditation is a practice for calm and reflection. It is not a replacement for professional care.

Questions people ask

What is yoga nidra?
It is a guided meditation practiced lying down, sometimes called yogic sleep.

What is a sankalpa?
A short positive intention set at the start and end of the practice.

Is it okay to fall asleep?
Yes. If you drift off, that is okay.

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