What is the Mind-Body Connection?

The mind-body connection recognizes the reality that the mind and body are intimately and ultimately linked as one.  There is absolutely no separation.  What is thought or felt always resonates throughout the body moment by moment through a bio-chemical reaction.  This reaction is either life and health enhancing or defeating.  It has also been verified that each emotion has a distinct biochemical signature that affects mental and physical health.

Researchers report that meditation, controlled breathing, deep relaxation and directed, guided imagery can boost the immune system, alter blood pressure, decrease pain, and help with problems such as infertility and insomnia.  These practices often help people cope with and recover from unpleasant medical procedures as well as the effects of stress from daily living.  Furthermore, the refinement of consciousness that takes place leads to spiritual growth and maturity.

Positive aspects of this connection consist of and contribute to:

• The ability to accomplish dreams and goals
• Feelings of contentment
• Living in balance
• Physical, emotional, and mental well-being
• Awakening the spirit
• Finding peace and happiness

On the other hand, the mind-body connection can also:

• Undermine one’s health physically, mentally and emotionally
• Create negativity
• Block the flow of creative and healing energy
• Contribute to illness, injuries and disease
• Cause unhappiness and dissatisfaction

Transformational tools that activate and assist this process include:

• Focused breathing
• Guided imagery and creative visualization
• Meditation
• Mind-body fitness modalities like yoga and tai chi
• Affirmations
• Honest expression and congruence of thoughts, feelings and actions

Mind-Body-Spirit Tools

• Take a 2 Hour Power Nap in 10 Minutes
  It’s easy and effective.  Don’t wait!  Take a power nap.  It’s only a click away.
• Crown Pull
  Stimulates blood flow to your brain. Reduces mental congestion. Helps overcome insomnia.  Strengthens memory. Opens the crown chakra to higher inspiration.
• 3 Thumps
  Stimulates your energy, boost your immune system, and release stress, relieve pain.

Take a 2-hour Power Nap in 10 minutes

Trouble sleeping? Insomnia is at epidemic proportions and has dreadful consequences.  A few problems associated with inadequate sleep include feeling irritable, exhausted, lowered immunity, poor mental / emotional health, and heart disease.

Relaxing regularly and deeply is the perfect remedy to conquer stress.  The World Health Organization predicts that stress-related disorders and psychological disorders will be the second leading cause of disabilities in the world by 2020.

Guided Relaxation is another tool for your stress relief toolbox. The secret to gaining relaxed energy is to clear away the mental ruckus and emotional debris to make room for clear thinking.

One of the easiest ways of doing this is through relaxing the muscular tension held in the body by tensing and releasing muscle groups throughout your body using a reliable technique known as progressive muscular relaxation.  Doing so not only releases physical tension, it also teaches you the felt difference between tension and relaxation.

By knowing this, you can catch physical tension early on and before it causes painful headaches, back problems and digestive trouble.  A calming effect for the body, mind, emotions and spirit is awakened as well.

→ Listen to Take 10 free of charge. It’s an excerpt from the Power Napper eBook by Julie Lusk that includes relaxing and refreshing exercises.

Take a FREE 2-Hour Nap in 10 Minutes Now.

Click on the Picture.

PS.  Benefit from the 2-Hour Nap in 10 minutes often by coming back to this website again and again.

PPS. 

Power Napper - Instant PDF Download!

Enjoy relaxation like you've never felt before. Guaranteed! Learn to take a 2-hour nap in 10-minutes! Audio file included! Spark your energy and erase tiredness with proven techniques to clear your mind and refresh your spirit.

PPPS.  Explore more mind-body exercises in Julie Lusk’s books and CDs, featuring deep relaxation and yoga nidra, guided imagery, and meditation.  

Crown Pull

Stimulates blood flow to your head.  Reduces mental congestion.  Helps overcome insomnia.  Strengthens memory.  Opens the crown chakra to higher inspiration.

o   Start with your thumbs on your temples with fingertips resting at the middle of your forehead.

o   Apply pressure and slowly pull your fingers apart, stretching the skin.  Breathe deeply, in through your nose and out through your mouth.  Repeat if it feels good.

o    Place your fingertips at your hairline and repeat the stretch.

o    Repeat this pattern starting at the top, center, and back of your head.  Continue until you reach the base of your neck.

3 Thumps

Stimulates your energies, boosts immune system, and releases stress.  Relieves pain.

• Place the fingers of either or both hands in the center of your sternum at the thymus gland.  Tap for 15 – 20 seconds.  Use your thumb and all your fingers.  As you tap, breathe slowly and deeply in through your nose with your tongue at the roof of your mouth and out through your mouth.
• Tap or rub the neuro-lymphatic spleen points firmly for about 15 seconds.  They are beneath the nipples of the breasts and down one rib.
• Tap or rub the spleen acupuncture points located on the sides of the body about 4 inches below the armpits. As you tap, breathe slowly and deeply in through your nose and out through your mouth.
• In the future, use either the neuro-lymphatic spleen points or the spleen acupuncture points if one set is more tender than the other.

Get more info on the Mind-Body Connection

Power Napper - Instant PDF Download!

Enjoy relaxation like you've never felt before. Guaranteed! Learn to take a 2-hour nap in 10-minutes! Audio file included! Spark your energy and erase tiredness with proven techniques to clear your mind and refresh your spirit.

Yoga Nidra Teacher
Training & Certification ~ Levels 1 & 2
for Teachers & Health Professionals

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

Author of

Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief (NHP)

Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation (Llewellyn) 

Numerous yoga nidra, guided relaxation and imagery books & recordings

See Julie Lusk’s qualifications here

Yoga Nidra means “yogic sleep.”  It is conscious, complete relaxation that is tremendously healing for the body, mind, and spirit.  Progressive relaxation skills, specialized breathing techniques, guided imagery, and mindfulness are systematically used to easily create a deeply meditative state that reliably reveals and awakens an inner reservoir of intuitive understanding and unconditional joy. Unique skills are developed for handling stress and tension in the short term and for the long run.  Yoga nidra is fundamental to a complete hatha yoga session and can also be done as a complete practice on its own.

Yoga nidra is based on authentic yoga teachings and backed by contemporary science.  Studies have shown that yoga nidra can boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, decrease pain, and improve other health conditions.  Regular practice can improve memory, concentration, and relieve anxiety and depression.  Using a sankalpa (special, self-selected resolve) during the fertile brain wave states experienced during yoga nidra makes it possible to clear out useless habits and bring about positive and durable changes to one’s personality and life. It’s delightfully replenishing and empowering.

Since yoga nidra is so powerful, it is critical that it is taught to others correctly.  Attending this workshop and training will give you the tools and resources needed to lead others effectively and how to avoid dangerous pitfalls.  You will gain the know-how and confidence needed to offer yoga nidra for groups and individuals.  Your clients and students will feel centered, increase bodymind awareness, enhance relaxation, make positive behavior changes, help heal emotional and physical upsets, and enhance self-understanding.

Who is this yoga nidra teacher training for?

These trainings are appropriate for yoga teachers, therapists, healthcare professionals, pastors, and other helping professionals.  You do not have to be a yoga teacher to do this.  This yoga nidra teacher training is approved for CEU’s by the Yoga Alliance.  Other health professionals may qualify for CEU’s.

Here’s what 3 graduates want you to know!

Register Now! Limited enrollment

• Level 1 – Yoga Nidra Training & Certification – Level 1
  • • In-Person – Sept 15-20, 2023
    • Hosted by Satchidananda Ashram – Yogaville in Virginia
    • Details & registration link
• Level 2 – Yoga Nidra Training & Certification – Level 2
  • TBA
  • Prerequisite – Level 1
  • Hosted by Satchidananda Ashram – Yogaville in Virginia
  • Details & registration link

Level 1:  Yoga Nidra Training Objectives

• Be able to describe the essential principles, practices and benefits of yoga nidra and why it matters
• Describe yoga nidra’s heritage from its ties to yoga to contemporary science
• List the benefits, risks, and ethics of leading yoga nidra
• List the five sequential levels of relaxation: distinguishing characteristics, benefits, and how to experience each one
• Learn and demonstrate how to help others experience progressive levels of awareness that correspond to the layers of oneself, called koshas, that conceals one’s true Self
• Learn and demonstrate how to lead relaxation techniques, specialized breathing methods, guided imagery, mindfulness and other mindbody techniques used in yoga nidra
• Explain how to help clients develop positive, personal characteristics and bring a meaningful purpose to one’s life by setting and using a self-selected resolve, called a sankalpa, during certain stages of yoga nidra
• Know how to create the right atmosphere and select music. Be equipped at handling distractions.
• Demonstrate voice quality, wording, sequencing, timing and pacing
• Experience yoga nidra first-hand and receive its benefits personally
• Practice leading others to gain the skills needed for your classes, clients, and students.
• Get your questions answered.

Watch what these graduates say about their experience

Upon completion of Level 1 training, graduates will:

• Be able to teach yoga nidra for overall health in group and private settings

  

• Use yoga nidra for personal self-care
• Have an understanding of the principles and practices of yoga nidra and its uses and benefits
• Receive a certificate upon completion of the training
• Yoga Alliance Approved for CEU’s
• Obtain CEU contact hours (varies per profession)

Textbooks |

Required
Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief by Julie Lusk 

Highly Recommended
Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation Print Book or Audiobook by Julie Lusk  

Additional training materials will be provided

 Register Now!  Limited enrollment

• Level 1 – Yoga Nidra Training & Certification – Level 1
  • • In-Person – Sept 15-20, 2023
    • Hosted by Satchidananda Ashram – Yogaville in Virginia
    • Details & registration link
• Level 2 – Yoga Nidra Training & Certification – Level 2
  • • TBA
    • Satchidananda Ashram – Yogaville in Virginia
    • Prerequisite – Level 1
    • Details & registration link

Level 2:  Yoga Nidra Training Objectives

Level 2 trainings can be customized to cover these and other topics pertinent to the advancement of yoga nidra understanding, practice, and delivery.  Yoga nidra training from Julie Lusk is required prior to enrollment in a Level 2 training.  If you have successfully completed training from another qualified yoga nidra trainer (iRest, Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra, Marc Halpern, etc), please inquire to see if you are you are eligible for this training.

Julie is uniquely qualified to show you how to write your own scripts. By writing Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation, she worked with the leading yoga nidra experts worldwide. This gave her a comprehensive perspective on all the major yoga nidra methods available and how to apply them in a wide range of settings, purposes, and populations.  You’ll confidently write scripts based on the spirit of classical yoga and backed by modern, mind-body science.

• Use and deepen one’s understanding of yoga nidra’s purpose, principles, techniques and delivery
• Demonstrate advanced skills, techniques and variations in leading:
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Breath-work
  • Guided imagery
  • Mindfulness
  • Other mindbody techniques
• Design and demonstrate how to write one’s own scripts
• Demonstrate how to adapt yoga nidra for specific needs and populations such as:
  • Stress management
  • Physical health (health concerns and medical conditions like insomnia, inflammation, hypertension, etc.)
  • Mental and emotional well-being
  • Behavior change
  • Various age groups / in diverse settings
• Explain and integrate chakra theory and techniques to enhance yoga nidra
• Use of mudras (hand gestures) to enhance yoga nidra
• Demonstrate how to integrate yoga nidra into one’s classes, workshops, and with individuals
• Get practical tips on designing, marketing, implementing, and evaluating yoga nidra workshops

Upon completion of Level 2 training, graduates will:

• Be able to teach yoga nidra in groups and private settings in sync with the purpose of the particular training
• Use yoga nidra for advanced personal self-care
• Have an understanding of the advanced principles and practices of yoga nidra and its uses and benefits
• Receive a certificate upon completion of the training
• Yoga Alliance Approved for CEU’s
• Obtain CEU contact hours (varies per profession)
  

  ---

Textbooks |

Required
1. Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief by Julie Lusk
2. Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation Print Book or Audiobook by Julie Lusk 
3. One additional Yoga Nidra book of your choice

4. Additional training materials will be provided

Register Now!  Limited enrollment

• Level 1 – Yoga Nidra Training & Certification – Level 1
  • • In-Person – Sept 15-20, 2023
    • Hosted by Satchidananda Ashram – Yogaville in Virginia
    • Details & registration link
• Level 2 – Yoga Nidra Training & Certification – Level 2
  • • TBA
    • Satchidananda Ashram – Yogaville in Virginia
    • Prerequisite – Level 1
    • Details & registration link

Trainer 

Julie Lusk, MEd, E-RYT 500, NCC, focuses on opening, balancing, and strengthening the body-mind-spirit connection through yoga, meditation, transformative relaxation, and guided imagery based on more than 30 years of study and experience. She is an internationally published author and recording artist whose books include Yoga Nidra Meditations,  Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief, and Yoga Meditations: Timeless Mind-Body Practices for Awakening and 30 Scripts for Relaxation, Imagery & Inner Healing, Vols. 1 and Vol 2. Julie is president of Wholesome Resources.  The retreats, trainings, and seminars she presents are relaxing, reflective and revitalizing.  She is talented in bringing the best out in others through her depth of knowledge, natural lightheartedness, and caring nature.  See additional qualifications here.

Contact Julie Lusk to schedule a training for yourself or for your yoga studio, meditation center, or special group.  

Yoga Alliance Approved. 

Call 513-248-9642 (ET)

Register Now!  Limited enrollment

• Level 1 – Yoga Nidra Training & Certification – Level 1
  • • • Online – Jan 5 – 28, 2023
      • Satchidananda Ashram – Yogaville in Virginia
      • Details & registration link
• Level 2 – Yoga Nidra Training & Certification – Level 2
  • • • TBA
      • Satchidananda Ashram – Yogaville in Virginia
      • Prerequisite – Level 1
      • Details & registration link

Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra CD

by Julie Lusk

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...

This CD takes you into a deeply relaxing and powerful state of being fully aware while being in the state of deep sleep.
It’s many benefits include:

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

Dr. Norm Shealy recommends this CD to anyone who has not conquered the art of relaxation.

“My friend Julie Lusk sent me a few months ago her CD on Yoga Nidra along with the book on Yoga Nidra.  Needless to say, the book just convinced me how important the CD is!  I have personally done a variety of yogic exercises for many years and one of my favorite books is The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the foundation for Raja Yoga.

I have also done scores of relaxation exercises and my favorite for many years has been autogenic training, which is not only relaxing but self regulating.  I have hundreds of CD’s including guided imagery and a great deal of outstanding music.  Despite my experience, Julie’s Yoga Nidra provides the deepest relaxation I can imagine.  If you have not yet conquered the art of relaxation, I strongly recommend this CD ASAP!

C. Norman Shealy M.D. Ph.D. President, Holos Institutes of Health Professor Emeritus of Energy Medicine President Emeritus Holos University Graduate Seminary

FAQ Sheet on Nidra by Julie Lusk answers: 

1)What is Yoga Nidra?  2) Is it different than meditation and hypnosis?  3)  How it is done.  How often. 4) Benefits  5) Resources. (pdf)

Julie’s Relaxation, Guided Imagery and Meditation CD’s are being used by:

• American Cancer Society
• Wellness Community
• Virginia Tech
• Avon
• Good Samaritan Hospital
• St. Elizabeth Medical Center
• Lewis-Gale Medical Center
• Jamaican Cancer Society
• Cancer Family Care
• Ronald MacDonald House
• Mary Maguire Foundation
• More
  

Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra
CD Track Sequence

Listen to the Introduction to learn more!

1. Introduction (5:08 min) Find out what Yoga Nidra is and how to get the most out of it.  May skip after first play.
   
2. Settling into Shavasana (4:59)  Dissolve tension and experience feeling relaxed and calm.
3. Awakening Awareness (3:49)
4. Resolve (1:50)
5. Rotation of Consciousness (10:05)
6. Breathing Meditation (4:56)
7. Chakra Mantra Meditation (28:31)
8. Resolve and Closing (5:53)

Marianne Lang says:

“Yoga Nidra is Awesome”

Julie!  I have listened to Yoga Nidra twice this week and I looooooove it!

People need to get this CD.  There’s no time like now to make yourself feel better, right?

I’m recuperating from minor surgery – nothing serious at all – but it kept me housebound so I popped in Yoga Nidra and melted away into a wonderful place that I intend to revisit again and again.

Wow – what a stress buster and energizer.  People have got to do this – it’s an investment in your body, mind and soul.  I guess it’s close to an hour?  I don’t know – I just know it’s worth it.  We take time to do lots of other things in our lives that take an hour or longer so why not take the time to do something so very good for yourself.

Thank you so much for doing this CD.  You know I love all your CDs, but this one is definitely different.  Wow – I love it!

Just wanted you to know that you’ve got another winner in Yoga Nidra CD!

Luna Ray, Singer, Songwriter
“Today I did Yoga Nidra with Julie Lusk.  The whole thing is truly a beautiful, sweet and powerful creation of a CD.  I love the bija mantras!  What a gift to the world! Iwill use it, and share it as the callings comes.  THANK YOU!

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...