Wholesome Resources

Wholesome Resources for Mind-Body Mastery through Yoga, Meditation, Guided Imagery, Stress Relief, Wellness

View Cart
Facebook
Facebook
fb-share-icon
Post on X
YouTube
LinkedIn
LinkedIn
Share
  • Home
  • About
    • About Wholesome Resources
    • About Julie Lusk
    • Education, Training, Publications & Experience
    • Testimonials
    • In the News
    • Tapin Family History
  • Class Offerings
    • Complete Course List
    • Online Yoga Classes
      • Online Yoga Nidra Class
      • Online Yoga Postures, Mindfulness & More Class
    • Yoga on Demand
    • Class Downloads
    • SoulCollage® Online Workshops & Supplies
      • SoulCollage® Supplies
    • Special Workshops | Trainings | Retreats
    • Yoga Nidra Teacher Training
    • Personal Lessons – Speaking – Training – Coaching
      • Private Lessons, Consults, Coaching
      • Yoga Meditation Retreats, Teacher Trainings
      • Business, Organization, Conference Speaker
    • Testimonials
  • Shop | Books + Audio
    • Complete Catalog
    • Books in Print & eBooks
    • Audio Streams & Downloads
    • CD’s
    • Special Savings
  • Cart
  • Library
    • Yoga
    • Yoga Nidra
      • Yoga Nidra FAQ: Real Relaxation, Meditation & Much More
      • Practice Yoga Nidra
        • Experience Yoga Nidra .. Free Video/Audio & Class Schedule
        • Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation .. Book, Audio, eBook
        • Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief .. Book, eBook
      • Yoga Nidra Benefits
      • Yoga Nidra FAQ on Setting Intentions & Sankalpas
      • Savasana: Yoga’s Relaxation Pose
      • Yoga Nidra and Sleep
      • Yoga Nidra Teacher Training
        • Certified Yoga Nidra Teachers
        • Ethical Matters for Yoga Nidra Professional Training Course
    • Meditation | Guided Imagery
    • Chakra Energy
      • Complete Chakra Chart
      • Chakra Balancing with Sound Healing
      • Chakra Balancing with Hand Mudras & Toning
      • Chakra Chart of Elements, Sounds, Directions, Senses, Attributes & Koshas
      • Chakra Energy Flow Meditation
    • Mind Body Helpers
      • Helpful Mind-Body Articles | Blog
      • Mind Body Connections
      • Wellness
      • Stress Relief
    • Quotes | Mantras | Chants
      • Yoga Sayings. Quotes. Poems
      • Best Yoga Mantras & Chants
      • Links
    • Yoga Pets
  • Flutes | Sound Baths
    • MusicSmith Flutes Info
    • Store | Native American Style Flute
    • Flute Music | Scales | Embellishments | Lessons
    • Playing Tips | Flute Care | Troubleshooting | Native American Style Flutes
    • Musical Sound Bath Tune Up
    • Music Lessons
  • Contact
    • Disclaimer / Terms of Service
You are here: Home / Search for "core/• https:/wholesomeresources.com/chakra-energy-flow-meditation/about-julie-lusk"

Search Results for: core/• https:/wholesomeresources.com/chakra-energy-flow-meditation/about-julie-lusk

Yoga Nidra and Your Brain Wave Fluctuations

January 6, 2019 by Julie Lusk

 

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Brain Yoga, Relaxation Exercises, Yoga, Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra FAQ

September 6, 2016 by Julie Lusk

Yoga Nidra FAQ
Real Relaxation, Meditation & Much More

Yoga_Nidra_FAQ_by Julie Lusk as PDF

YogaNidraCF.inddWhat Is Yoga Nidra? Yoga Nidra is a powerful technique that yoga sages have been using for thousands of years.  Yoga Nidra means “yogic sleep.”   Yoga Nidra refers to a state of consciousness and not to a particular technique. It’s a state of conscious deep sleep that goes far beyond deep relaxation to an inborn place of intrinsic peace and quiet.  It’s a glorious place where awareness remains yet the thinking mind withdraws. What’s experienced is awareness without words, thoughts, images, feelings and other sensations. It’s where our innate wisdom, intelligence and intuition naturally reside.  It feels fantastic!

What are the benefits of Yoga Nidra?  With regular practice, your health will improve.  Scientific studies have shown that real relaxation and yoga nidra helps with a variety of physical and mental problems.  It can boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, and decrease pain.  Though it’s not a substitute for sleeping, one hour of yoga nidra equals about 4 hours of typical sleep because the brain wave state we’re in is extremely restful and relaxing.  You’ll enjoy living with a clear head.  Eventually, mood swings and emotional upsets won’t bother you.  Your creativity and intuition will flourish in a positive and productive way.   Plus, your energy increases.   See more documented benefits of yoga nidra here.

Is Yoga Nidra different from hypnosis?   Yes.  In hypnosis, we’re in a brain wave state that is not as deep as in yoga nidra.  With hypnosis, someone else makes suggestions to us in this altered state.  In Yoga Nidra, positive suggestions originate and come from within ourselves for lasting and constructive change.  This is called setting a resolve, or sankalpa.

How is Yoga Nidra Done?  The purpose of yoga nidra is to completely relax physically, yoga nidra's benefitsenergetically, mentally, and emotionally.  Doing so is deeply soothing and it naturally awakens innate wisdom and intuition.  During the yoga nidra process, you’ll be invited to get comfortable lying down on a yoga mat or something similar.  Specialized relaxation exercises, breathing techniques, meditation, and guided imagery are utilized for becoming extremely relaxed and to replenish energy. Yoga nidra effectively handles everyday tension and is capable of healing deep-seated stress. It is much more than a quick fix.

How does Yoga Nidra help me make positive changes?  What is a resolve, also called a sankalpa? The brain wave state we’re in during Yoga Nidra is fertile ground.  We’re both very relaxed and very receptive.  Setting a resolve during this time makes it completely possible to clear out useless habits and bring about positive and permanent changes in your personality and life.  So, choose something worthwhile that has meaning and significance for you as your resolve. Some examples are kindness, courage, and love or something to give meaning to your life purpose.  The sankalpa (resolve) is stated briefly, sincerely, and in the present tense at the beginning and end of yoga nidra.  Use the same one until it becomes a living reality.

How often should I do Yoga Nidra?   Regular practice (daily to several times a week) is strongly recommended, especially if you want to reap the benefits.

Note:  Refer to Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief by Julie Lusk (NHP 2015) for a clear and complete information on yoga nidra.  It’s available at the WholesomeResources.com store.

The Map of Consciousness used during Yoga Nidra

One technique that is used to achieve the state of conscious awareness known as yoga nidra, is to mentally scan the body using a specific order and duration based on the sensory-motor cortex, also called the homunculus.  It is recommended to follow the same sequence to help bring about the movement of prana (life force) and create a healthy flow of energy.

If you look closely at the diagram of the brain’s sensory-motor cortex below, you will notice that more area is devoted to certain places than to others.  For instance, compare the relatively large amount of area dedicated to the hands and fingers with the small amount dedicated to the hips.  This is why more time is intentionally spent scanning the areas of the body with more of the brain dedicated to it during the practice.

 

Sensory-motor cortex © as shown in Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief by Julie Lusk. Click image to enlarge.

Sensory Motor Cortex of Brain from Yoga NidraThe diagram below shows the subtle energy centers, called chakras, that are also mentally scanned.  Chakras are associated with physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual health, and more.

ChakrasCrown Chakra – Wisdom. Spirituality – Purple
Third Eye – Intuition.  Insight – Indigo Blue
Throat – Self expression. Communication – Blue
Heart –  Compassion.  Love. Kindness – Green
Solar Plexus – Self esteem. Confidence – Yellow
Sacral – Sensuality, intimacy, creativity – Orange 
Root –  Safety. To have.  To be – Red

Yoga_nidra_FAQ_by Julie Lusk as PDF

 

 

How to Experience Yoga Nidra:  Like all worthwhile things, regular practice yields the best results.

  1. Listen to Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation | Audible – iTunes – Amazon
  2. Read about it and get free audio downloads in Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief (New Harbinger, 2015).
  3. Experience yoga nidra on video/audio.
  4. Attend a virtual yoga nidra class held weekly on Zoom.
  5. Take a yoga nidra teacher training course and earn a certificate.
  6. Get yoga nidra downloads here.

The map of consciousness technique is used on the Yoga Nidra for Sensing Inner Strength & Balance CD and the Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra CDs listed below.  Chakra awareness and balancing is featured on both of these recordings.

A progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) technique is used on Yoga Nidra for Unshakable Peace & Joy.  Every muscle group is consciously tensed and released during progressive muscle relaxation. Specialized breathing techniques follow along with ways to calm restless thoughts and feelings are done.

The autogenic training technique is the focus on Yoga Nidra for High-Level Living.  Statements are silently repeated to produce sensations of heaviness and warmth throughout the body are used.  The paradox of opposites is featured as well as mindfulness, the awareness of witnessing one’s experience, are also used.

Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief - Print Book & Audio download
Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief - Print Book & Audio download
Yoga Nidra can stop tension in its tracks with a wonderfully, powerful & unique state of deep relaxation, mental clarity & insightful awareness. These practical, empowering relaxation exercises, meditations that soothe and visualizations that renew are based on classic yoga and backed by modern science. They’ll help you unwind, replenish, and feel refreshed with durable peace and unconditional joy. CLICK the blue title link above to find out more...
Quantity:  
Price: $17.95
Yoga Nidra: Guided Meditations for Relaxation & Renewal Download
Yoga Nidra: Guided Meditations for Relaxation & Renewal Download
Get clear guidance to experience 6 levels of relaxation done lying down. This meditation replenishes energy. It delivers mental clarity as restless thoughts and emotional upsets fade away. Specialized breathing, guided imagery & mindful awareness are used. An inner reservoir of heartfelt peace, intuitive understanding & unconditional joy is revealed. One hour of practice equates to 4 hours of sleep.
Quantity:  
Price: $5.99Price: $29.99 
Yoga Nidra for High-Level Living CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
Yoga Nidra for High-Level Living CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
Brighten your energy with self-understanding for mental sharpness, emotional equilibrium and insightful awareness. Mindfulness, setting a sankalpa (resolve), autogenic training and the paradox of opposites will tame stress once and for all. Jeanne, a musician and former nun says, "Exhilarating! This truly raised my spirit. I've never experienced such deep euphoria so easily. I felt so relaxed!" This is from Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief, a book and audio set by Julie Lusk. Digital downloads are also available.
Quantity:  
Price: $5.99Price: $16.99 
Yoga Nidra for Inner Strength and Balance CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
Yoga Nidra for Inner Strength and Balance CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
Find your calm spot and live a more balanced, confident and meaningful life. Feel totally relaxed with an empowering tour of the bodymind. Guided relaxation and imagery are effectively used for balancing all your energy centers or chakras. Nancy says "This gets me totally calm and in touch with myself. Afterwards, I feel awake, refreshed, centered and ready for my day." This is from Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief, a book and audio set by Julie Lusk. Digital downloads of this CD are also available.
Quantity:  
Price: $5.99Price: $16.99 
Yoga Nidra for Unshakable Peace and Joy CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
Yoga Nidra for Unshakable Peace and Joy CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
Experience six amazing levels of relaxation using progressive muscle relaxation and specialized breathing techniques that reliably work. Laura, a HS teacher says "This focused my mind and I was 100% worry-free. It's easy to experience. Yoga nidra is wonderful." This is from Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief, a book and audio set by Julie Lusk. Digital downloads of this CD are also available.
Quantity:  
Price: $5.99Price: $16.99 
Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra  CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
This takes you into a deeply relaxing and powerful state of being fully aware while being in the state of deep sleep.

Its many benefits include:

  • Listening for 1 hour equals 4 hours sleep
  • Improves immunity
  • Increases heart health
  • Relieves stress
  • Brings inner peace and balance

Digital downloads are available.

CLICK the blue title link above to find out more...
Quantity:  
Price: $9.99Price: $16.95 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Meditation / Guided Imagery, Misc Musings, Relaxation Exercises, Stress Relief / Management, Yoga, Yoga Nidra Tagged With: yoga nidra, yoga nidra benefits

Certified Yoga Nidra Teachers

Graduates of the Yoga Nidra Professional Training & Certificate Program – Level I 

2017 to 2023

Get info on future Yoga Nidra trainings here.

September 2017 – Yoga Nidra Level I

Ilona Pisarek is a hatha yoga teacher, RYT 200 trained in the Sivananda style. She also completed 100 hours of training in Yoga of Recovery to help those overcoming addictive and self-destructive behaviors. Her passion for helping others led her to discover Yoga Nidra as a powerful tool for a stress relief and finding peace. She completed the training of Yoga Nidra Level 1. Ilona also holds academic degrees in Nutrition and Food Sciences. She offers private and small groups classes in English and Polish. Ilona lives in Lawrenceville, NJ.  Contact her by email
Kathryn Weirick – Coming soon.
Nancy McMahon BA, MPA loves sharing her love of yoga with others. Nancy earned Yoga Alliance’s RYT 200 certification after completing studies with Denise Moore’s Open Dimension Yoga Teachers Training Program, an Integral Yoga based program.  Further studies with Julie Lusk/Wholesome Resources garnered her Yoga Nidra Professional Training certification: Level I.  Nancy is also certified by the American Heart Association in Heartsaver CPR/AED. Nancy teaches in the Middleburg, Delaplane and The Plains areas in Virginia.  Learn more at yogaworkz.com. Like her Facebook page
Natalie Kahn, MA, RYT, loves her life on Hatteras Island, NC, working with others in-person & online, as a guide to empower oneself through the tools of yoga. She combines her training in the Himalayan tradition and yoga nidra with her degrees and experience in education to offer 1-on-1 sessions, personalized sadhana (daily practice), group classes and Unplug & Empower Yoga Retreats. Visit yogardenshine.com for more and follow her at Yogardenshine on Instagram and Facebook.
Neli Ramirez is a Certified Yoga Nidra Teacher.  She has a BS in Nursing and is a Certified Diabetes Educator.  Neli is enrolled in the University of Texas online course, Science & Practice of Yoga and intends to complete the Integral Yoga Teacher Training course to have the tools needed to guide herself and others to a space to help create a healthier world.  She is enrolled in the tension/trauma release exercise program (TRE) and a CMT massage therapy program (CMT).   She says, “During my Yoga Nidra training, I reached a space of peaceful realization that opened a door for me.  Behind that door I could see myself (really SEE myself) and accept all good and petty things that make me human. I could also SEE the people around me in just the same way. I accepted all of it: the good and the bad, the past, present, and future.” Neli lives and works in Charlottesville, VA. Email Neli 
Polly Behringer a lifelong practitioner of different modalities of healing through yoga.  She is a studio owner, The WhereHouse Okc in Oklahoma, a RYT-200 Yoga Teacher certified by Becca Hewes, E-RYT500, C-IAYT, owner of YogaLife. She is certified in Yoga Nidra – Level I by Julie Lusk, MEd, E-RYT.  Polly has studied Trauma Release Exercises (TRE) with the founder & creator of TRE, David Berceli, PhD &  Paul Darby, LPC, CACIII and Board of Directors TRE for all of U.S.  Future plans include attending the Integral Yoga Teachers Training 200 hour program, a month long immersion / onsite program of  Satchidanada Ashram – Yogaville.”
Tosh Patterson is known as the simplicity expert who helps busy professional women break up with burnout and overwhelm. Her expertise has been featured on the Dr Oz Show, U.S. News & World Report and various media outlets. Tosh has earned certifications in Yoga Nidra, Bikram Yoga, Meditation and uses these modalities to teach women how to simplify life. Women rave about Tosh’s annual event, RECHARGE Retreat. Visit toshpatterson.com to learn more about retreats, classes, and programs.  
Viviana Collazo – coming soon

November 2018 – Yoga Nidra Level I


Cynthia (Cinmayi) Moore fell in love with the yoga nidra part of Integral Yoga so chose that path for teacher training. Meditation, and cultivating peace are lifelong pursuits. Cynthia is a healthcare provider (registered dietitian, diabetes educator and integrative coach) and believes in the power of Yoga Nidra to heal.  Contact her by email.
Elizabeth Norqual M.A., R.N., N.E.T.A.-C.G.E.I., Certified Yoga Nidra instructor and Holistic Practitioner.  With more than 35 years experience as a Registered Nurse and Psychotherapist, Elizabeth (Betty) is passionate about preventing stress related illness by teaching clients how to live a healthy mind, body, spirit life style including yoga practice and yoga nidra (yogic sleep, deep relaxation).  She is the founder of Beautiful as You Are, B.A.Y.A., she leads a weekly support group based on the six principles of Simple Abundance.  As an educator, she present workshops on stress management and other Holistic topics for personal and professional growth.  She is available to teach Yoga Nidra, Stress Relief, and Deep Relaxation privately 1:1 or in a group setting.  To arrange a session or to inquire on workshop topics contact her here.
Anna Vasudevan
Cathrine Nelson 
Christina Maniccia
DeAnn Stanley 
Florence Ambika Cristelli 
Gigi Jones 
Irma Rosario 
Jori Andler 
LeeAnne Gfroerer 
Lisa Caunitis 
Marilyn Perry 
Mary Jane Palmigiano 
Pauline Gianoplus 
Raama Das 
Rachel Martinez 
Ricardo Chiaradia 
Sheila Lapeyrouse 
Sherry Hanover 
Victoria Jaya Eubanks
Get info on future Yoga Nidra trainings here.
September 2019 – Yoga Nidra Level I
Barbara Germershausen 
Brian Fouche teaches Yoga Nidra and Meditation classes.  He  has completed 100 hours of teacher training in advanced Yoga sequencing and Yin Yoga through Bhakti Yoga DC.  Brian seeks to guide his students by serving as a voice which they can make their own and incorporate into their everyday life as they come back into contact with their true inner self.  Brian lives in Washington, D.C. Contact him by email.
Chuck Rounds
Colleen Dwyer
Diana Kelly
Ivanna Kokriatskaia
Joe Duquette
Linda Murray
Lori Burckart
LuAnn Oliver 
Nelda Eserin
Patty Strawderman
Irmina Ulysse 
Get info on future Yoga Nidra trainings here.

February 2022 – Yoga Nidra Level I

Angelica Lakshmi Gutierrez 
Annalisa Derryberry is a licensed massage therapist (FL MA43061), certified hand & foot reflexologist, and certified yoga teacher. For more than 17 years, she has assisted people in experiencing deep relaxation, pain relief, and an improved sense of well-being. She also offers weekly Yoga Nidra sessions online as another way to help people to be kind to their bodies and minds. Learn more at DerryberryMassage.com  or email her here. 
Georgia F. LaCroix, Level I Yoga Nidra Certified Teacher, Empowerment Coach, combines Yoga Nidra, integrative healing skills, and coaching to offer her clients and students avenues through which they can come into awareness of their Wholeness, become empowered, and move forward to experience practical, full, productive, creative and joy-filled lives.  Georgia teaches and facilitates Reiki, Yoga Nidra, and workshops designed to help individuals break through their blocks and move forward!  A Board Certified Massage Therapist, Reiki Master/Teacher, Certified Hypnotherapist, and practitioner in several other modalities, Georgia has 25 years of extensive study and experience in the fields of bodywork, energy healing and coaching. GeorgiaLaCroix.com  // Contact her by email here. 
Gina Alderman
Jeffrey Dharma Hollar
Joan Pleasants
JoAnn Bonifacio
Julie M. Haines
Lisa Ann Sheehy
Margaret Ralph
June Zimmerman
Nana Smith
Nikki Wesen has combined her love of yoga, sound meditation, and Reiki to help with the healing of herself and others. She believes we are all capable of healing ourselves, and sometimes we need the help of others to do it. Through her dedication to herself and to those she is fortunate enough to help, she would like to serve as a steppingstone to cross the bridge into a healing mindset. Nikki is RYT-200 Yoga Instructor certified from Honor Yoga, NJ. She is an Atma Buti certified sound healing practitioner under Suren Shrethra as well as being certified in yin yoga with Corina Benner. She is certified in Trauma Sensitive Yoga, Meditation, IY Stress Management TT, and Yoga Nidra Level 1 with Julie Lusk, MEd, E-RYT. Most of all, she believes that these healing modalities, should be accessible to everyone. KumamaEnergyHealing.com 
Pamela Adami
Rasamayi Victori, RCRT, RRPr, CAP is a lifelong student, practitioner and educator of the healing arts. She has always felt a deep connection with all living things.  A near death experience at a young age gave her a deeper understanding of this connection.  Her passion for natural healing and helping others led her on a wonderful journey of learning and sharing that continues today. Rasamayi has been teaching Yoga, Meditation and Deep Relaxation for over 25 years in the US and Canada. She is a Certified Yoga Nidra Teacher, Board Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, Certified Reflexologist, Reiki Master/Teacher, Certified Yoga Stress Management Teacher, Certified Yoga Teacher, iRest Yoga Nidra Meditation Teacher Level 1. Learn more at victorinaturalhealth.com. Contact her by email here.
Sanjana Patel
Sylvia Villarreal
Tami Musumeci-Szabo
Tinuola Bello
Vimukti Aslan
Vyasa Smith
January 2023 – Yoga Nidra Level I

Get info on future Yoga Nidra trainings here.

Anne Hurley
Bhudevi (Melissa Anne) McClain 
Jennifer McKeen-Rodrigues
Jivapriya (Jessica) Colette 
June Zimmerman
Lauren Curtis
LJ Laura Kontos
Malati (Maria) Gelabert
Margaret Ramos
Maureen Gilmartin
Mercy Mungwadzi AUDIT
Nadia (Nadezhda) Vladgina
Nandini (Nonhlanhla) Shembe-Williams
Rasamayi Victori
Rebecca Cooley
Nathalie Rukmini Ando is certified in Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Integral Yoga, Raja Yoga, Adaptive, Stress Management, Yoga of Recovery, Yin Yoga, Neuroscience and Yoga, and Yoga Nidra Level 1. She has been practicing Yoga since 2004 and has been teaching since 2010. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering and is a fine artist specializing in oil-on-canvas. You can take her online classes at iytv.online and see her artwork at natiando.art and nathalie-ando.pixels.com.
Sharanya (Nancy) Debruler
Sonya Phillips
Tomoko Nakamura
Veronica Escobar is an elder and special needs law and trusts and estates attorney by day and, at other times, is continuing her studies as an aspiring end of life doula. Due to her professional and personal experiences, she has developed an interest in end of life, palliative and hospice care and its impact on the individual and their family and loved ones. As part of her commitment to this work, she completed her Yoga Nidra Level 1 teacher training with Julie Lusk. Her hope is to incorporate Yoga Nidra and Restorative Yoga in her work as a doula and to further companion the dying and their families with these true gifts. She can be reached at veronica@thewaterbearer.com
Get info on future Yoga Nidra trainings here.

Brain Yoga

October 20, 2018 by Julie Lusk

To Improve Your Memory, Concentration & More

Julie Lusk, M.Ed., E-RYT-500

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Brain Yoga, Meditation / Guided Imagery, Mind-Body Mastery Tools and Techniques, Misc Musings, Stress Relief / Management, Wellness, Yoga Tagged With: brain yoga, eye exercises, superbrain yoga, yoga nidra

Yoga Nidra FAQ: Real Relaxation, Meditation & Much More

Yoga Nidra FAQ by Julie Lusk as PDF

YogaNidraCF.inddWhat Is Yoga Nidra? Yoga Nidra means “yogic sleep.”  It powerfully combines ancient yoga with contemporary science. It starts with a systematic process for shedding physical, mental, and emotional stress. Energy and alertness increase and unconditional peacefulness and quiet is uncovered. No yoga experience is needed. It is typically done lying down. It feels great!

What are the benefits of Yoga Nidra?  With regular practice, your health will improve.  Scientific studies have shown that real relaxation and yoga nidra helps with a variety of physical and mental problems.  It can boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, and decrease pain.  Though it’s not a substitute for sleeping, one hour of yoga nidra equals about 4 hours of typical sleep because the brain wave state we’re in is extremely restful and relaxing.  You’ll enjoy living with a clear head.  Eventually, mood swings and emotional upsets won’t bother you.  Your creativity and intuition will flourish in a positive and productive way.   Plus, your energy increases.   See more documented benefits of yoga nidra here.

Is Yoga Nidra different from hypnosis?   Yes.  In hypnosis, we’re in a brain wave state that is not as deep as in yoga nidra.  With hypnosis, someone else makes suggestions to us in this altered state.  In Yoga Nidra, positive suggestions originate and come from within ourselves for lasting and constructive change.  This is called setting a resolve, or sankalpa.

How is Yoga Nidra Done?  The purpose of yoga nidra is to completely relax physically, yoga nidra's benefitsenergetically, mentally, and emotionally.  Doing so is deeply soothing and it naturally awakens innate wisdom and intuition.  During the yoga nidra process, you’ll be invited to get comfortable lying down in the relaxation pose (savasana)  This is done on a yoga mat or something similar.  Specialized relaxation exercises, breathing techniques, meditation, and guided imagery are utilized for becoming extremely relaxed and to replenish energy. Yoga nidra effectively handles everyday tension and is capable of healing deep-seated stress. It is much more than a quick fix.

How does Yoga Nidra help me make positive changes?  What is a resolve, also called a sankalpa? The brain wave state we’re in during Yoga Nidra is fertile ground.  We’re both very relaxed and very receptive.  Setting a resolve during this time makes it completely possible to clear out useless habits and bring about positive and permanent changes in your personality and life.  So, choose something worthwhile that has meaning and significance for you as your resolve. Some examples are kindness, courage, and love or something to give meaning to your life purpose.  The sankalpa (resolve) is stated briefly, sincerely, and in the present tense at the beginning and end of yoga nidra.  Use the same one until it becomes a living reality.  Get more help on sankalpas here.

How often should I do Yoga Nidra?   Regular practice (daily to several times a week) is strongly recommended, especially if you want to reap the benefits.

Note:  Refer to Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief by Julie Lusk (NHP 2015) for a clear and complete information on yoga nidra.  It’s available at the WholesomeResources.com store and other online outlets.

The Map of Consciousness used during Yoga Nidra

One technique that is used to achieve the state of conscious awareness known as yoga nidra, is to mentally scan the body using a specific order and duration based on the sensory-motor cortex, also called the homunculus.  It is recommended to follow the same sequence to help bring about the movement of prana (life force) and create a healthy flow of energy.

If you look closely at the diagram of the brain’s sensory-motor cortex below, you will notice that more area is devoted to certain places than to others.  For instance, compare the relatively large amount of area dedicated to the hands and fingers with the small amount dedicated to the hips.  This is why more time is intentionally spent scanning the areas of the body with more of the brain dedicated to it during the practice.

Sensory-motor cortex © as shown in Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief by Julie Lusk. Click image to enlarge.

Sensory Motor Cortex of Brain from Yoga NidraThe diagram below shows the subtle energy centers, called chakras, that are also mentally scanned.  Chakras are associated with physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual health, and more.

ChakrasCrown Chakra – Wisdom. Spirituality – Purple
Third Eye – Intuition.  Insight – Indigo Blue
Throat – Self expression. Communication – Blue
Heart –  Compassion.  Love. Kindness – Green
Solar Plexus – Self esteem. Confidence – Yellow
Sacral – Sensuality, intimacy, creativity – Orange 
Root –  Safety. To have.  To be – Red

Yoga_nidra_FAQ_by Julie Lusk as PDF

 

How to Experience Yoga Nidra:  Like all worthwhile things, regular practice yields the best results.  It’s as easy as 1-2-3.

  1. Listen to Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation | Audible – iTunes – Amazon
  2. Read about it and get free audio downloads in Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief (New Harbinger, 2015).
  3. Experience yoga nidra on video/audio.
  4. Attend a virtual yoga nidra class held weekly on Zoom.
  5. Take a yoga nidra teacher training course and earn a certificate.
  6. Get yoga nidra downloads here.

The map of consciousness technique is used on the Yoga Nidra for Sensing Inner Strength & Balance CD and the Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra CDs listed below.  Chakra awareness and balancing is featured on both of these recordings.  Yoga Nidra: Guided Meditations for Relaxation & Renewal puts a different twist on this technique.  Relaxed breathing, mindfulness and guided imagery are incorporated as well.

A progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) technique is used on Yoga Nidra for Unshakable Peace & Joy.  Every muscle group is consciously tensed and released during progressive muscle relaxation. Specialized breathing techniques follow along with ways to calm restless thoughts and feelings are done.

The autogenic training technique is the focus on Yoga Nidra for High-Level Living.  Statements are silently repeated to produce sensations of heaviness and warmth throughout the body are used.  The paradox of opposites is featured as well as mindfulness, the awareness of witnessing one’s experience, are also used.

Resources: Books, Recordings & More

Get Audio Downloads here

NEW! Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation
NEW! Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation
Experience peace and deeply restorative rest that heals your body, mind & spirit. Features 24 Yoga Nidra scripts written by author Julie Lusk and 12 of the world's master teachers. Enjoy 6 levels of relaxation for a joyful meditative experience. Learn to use yogic sleep to revitalize your inner reservoir of intuitive understanding and unconditional joy. Audiobook available. CLICK the blue title link above to find out more...
Quantity:  
Price: $19.99
Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief - Print Book & Audio download
Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief - Print Book & Audio download
Yoga Nidra can stop tension in its tracks with a wonderfully, powerful & unique state of deep relaxation, mental clarity & insightful awareness. These practical, empowering relaxation exercises, meditations that soothe and visualizations that renew are based on classic yoga and backed by modern science. They’ll help you unwind, replenish, and feel refreshed with durable peace and unconditional joy. CLICK the blue title link above to find out more...
Quantity:  
Price: $17.95
Yoga Nidra Essentials CD
Yoga Nidra Essentials CD
Find your calm spot. Brighten your energy. Enjoy a more meaningful life. Experience 6 levels of relaxation. Reclaim optimal health for your body, mind & heart. Laura says "My focused mind easily. I was 100% worry-free. It's wonderful." By Julie Lusk, 6-time author. Digital downloads available.
Quantity:  
Price: $9.99Price: $16.99 
Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra  CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra CD (Shop @ Amazon / iTunes = We are sold out temporarily)
This takes you into a deeply relaxing and powerful state of being fully aware while being in the state of deep sleep.

Its many benefits include:

  • Listening for 1 hour equals 4 hours sleep
  • Improves immunity
  • Increases heart health
  • Relieves stress
  • Brings inner peace and balance

Digital downloads are available.

CLICK the blue title link above to find out more...
Quantity:  
Price: $9.99Price: $16.95 
Yoga Nidra: Guided Meditations for Relaxation & Renewal Download
Yoga Nidra: Guided Meditations for Relaxation & Renewal Download
Get clear guidance to experience 6 levels of relaxation done lying down. This meditation replenishes energy. It delivers mental clarity as restless thoughts and emotional upsets fade away. Specialized breathing, guided imagery & mindful awareness are used. An inner reservoir of heartfelt peace, intuitive understanding & unconditional joy is revealed. One hour of practice equates to 4 hours of sleep.
Quantity:  
Price: $5.99Price: $29.99 
  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • …
  • 25
  • Next Page »

Share | Follow

Facebook
Facebook
fb-share-icon
Post on X
YouTube
LinkedIn
LinkedIn
Share

Donate to support my website & our dog Breezy … Click her pic. Thanks!

Recent Posts

  • Happy Humming Practice
  • 12 Symptoms of Inner Peace
  • Emotional First Aid Kit | Personal Worksheet
  • Insomnia? Welcome to the 4 am Club
  • Get-a-Dose of MindBody Bliss

Find Articles by Topic

News Flash

Click here for my latest book & free audio download of the 3 main yoga nidra exercises! It's as relaxing as it is … [Read More...]

Julie T. Lusk, M.Ed.

Wholesome Resources

Milford, OH 45150

Greater Cincinnati Area

513-248-YOGA (9642)

Donate to support my website & our dog Breezy … Click her pic. Thanks!

Join Our Network

Join Our Network

Free Newsletter Signup

Privacy Policy & Use of Cookies

Site content Copyright © 2005-2026 – Wholesome Resources – All Rights Reserved
Site administration by The Small Business Website Guy