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

Yoga Nidra FAQ by Julie Lusk as PDF

What 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, energetically, 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.

The 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.

Crown 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

Resources: Books, Recordings & More

Get Audio Downloads here

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...

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...

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.

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...

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.

Desktop Yoga ® Sampler

Adapted from Julie T. Lusk’s Book

Desktop Yoga ® The Anytime, Anywhere Relaxation Program

Just like your computer needs a screen saver, your body needs a body-saver. Here is a well-rounded set of yoga-based exercises that can be done right from your chair at work, home, or in your car. They’re perfect for “Internet addicts, office workers, and stressed out students.” Julie’s Desktop Yoga ® book contains over 100 easy-to-follow stretches to help your back, neck, shoulders, face, hands and feet; breathing techniques to increase your concentration, improve your sense of inner balance, and aid your circulation; power napping exercises to improve energy by “taking a 2 hour nap in 2 minutes” and proven wellness and stress management strategies that work.

Three Part Breathing: Breathing deeply and fully is essential to yoga. It will help you relax and replenish your energy. Begin by releasing all the air from your lungs through your nose. Use your abdominal muscles to squeeze all the air out. Slowly and smoothly breathe in through your nose so you can feel your belly filling followed by an expansion around your entire rib cage (front, back and sides). Finally allow the air to fill the collarbone area. Release all the air slowly through your nose as you empty your lungs as completely as possible. Continue Three Part Breathing for as long as you comfortably can.

Neck Stretch. Sit up straight and allow your shoulders to relax. Let your right ear move toward your right shoulder. Only move it as far as it comfortably can without force. Take a few full breaths. Just as your muscles begin to tire, take a breath in and bring your head back up to the center.

Next, let your left ear slowly move toward your left shoulder and take a few more breaths. Then, bring your head back to center on an in-breath. It is common for one side to feel more limber that the other side.

Moving your head from side to side can be repeated several times. While doing this, imagine all the stress and strain that’s held around your neck releasing and letting go.

Next, let your chin glide down to your chest and take a few breaths. Remember to let it go as far as it comfortably can without strain. When ready, bring your head to center.

Do not move your head backward. It puts too much stress on that area of your neck.

Shoulder Shrug: Let your arms relax at your sides. Bring both shoulders up toward your ears while you breathe in through your nose. Breathe out through your mouth as you let your shoulders drop back down. Really let go. It’s fine to repeat this a few more times. This releases frustrations as well as shoulder tension.

Energy Stretch: Place both feet flat on the floor and let your arms hang to your sides. As you breathe in slowly, begin raising your arms straight out in front of you until they are shoulder height. Still breathing in, bring your arms out to both sides and then raise them over your head.

Breathe out as you lower your arms back down to your sides. Continue on for several deep diaphragmatic breaths. The trick here is to raise your arms during the time it takes to take a breath in and to lower your arms during the time it takes to breathe out.

Palming Eye Exercise: Rub your hands rapidly together with your palms and fingers touching.

Keep doing it so that you feel some heat and energy being generated. Next, rest your elbows on your desk. Cup your hands and gently place them over your closed eyes. Let the warmth and darkness soothe your eyes. Take several long and easy breaths as you imagine the tiredness being released with your out-breath, and energy and vitality returning with your in-breath.

Hand Helpers: First make a tight fist and feel the tension. Then, let go and release all the tension and tightness. Repeat.

Stretch your fingers and palms out as much as you can. Take your time to really feel the stretch. Let your hands and fingers relax gently on your lap for several moments.

Hold your arms out in front of you and bend your wrists so your fingers point to the sky. Next, point them toward the earth. Repeat, and don’t forget to breathe.

Cat Stretch: Make sure your chair is pushed away from your desktop so that you can sit on your chair and stretch both arms and hands straight out toward the desk. Place your fingers on the desktop or on your knees.

Next, lower your head as you arch your back up (just like a Halloween cat) while breathing out. On the next in-breath, raise your head and chest up while you curve and stretch your back in the other direction. Don’t strain. Continue up and down, breathing in and out as you go. Rest and relax for a few moments with your arms resting on your lap.

Foot Rolls: Kick your shoes off, stretch your legs out in front of you and begin moving your feet around in a big circle. Let your feet, ankles and calves get in on the act. Are you still breathing? Now circle your feet around in the other direction. Rest.

Next, point your toes forward and then back toward your head. Do this several times in a row. Rest.

Then, lift your legs up and move the balls of your feet from side to side. Stretch your toes and relax all over.

→ Julie Lusk, M.Ed. is available to speak about Desktop Yoga ® and a variety of wellness and mind/body topics at your special event.

How to Create a Desktop Altar

Julie Lusk was interviewed for an article in Yoga Journal (Feb. 2006) on Desktop Altars.

“You’re reeling from a stressful conference call when another pile of papers appears on your desk, requiring a late-night work session.  It’s the kind of thing that could send you over the edge – but after a few deep breaths you’re feeling calm again. Your stay-cool tool?  The desktop altar you’ve made to keep yourself centered.

To collect the items for such an altar in your workspace, Julie Lusk, a yoga teacher in Cincinnati and author of Desktop Yoga: the Anytime, Anywhere Relaxation Program for Office Slaves, Internet Addicts, and Stressed-Out Students, suggests sticking to simple objects that are linked to a specific memory, belief, or goal.  That might mean a special shell, stone, photograph, flower, fountain, book, plant, or even a simple saying that inspires you.”

“An altar need not scream “Spiritual!” says Lusk. “What makes your collection an altar is your intention – which can be as simple as your desire to return to the present each time you see it.”

–                   Yoga Journal – Issue 193 – February 2006  –   Toni Klym McLellan

Desktop Altar FAQ

1.  What is your definition of a  “desktop altar”.

Personalizing an area of your workspace to remind you of your higher values/self in a way that is personally inspirational, meaningful, uplifting and keeps you grounded and centered.

2. How might a desktop altar help people supplement their yoga or meditation practice, even in the midst of a hectic workday?

A desktop altar serves as a reminder to breathe, be mindful, and practice Desktop Yoga ™ stretches.

3.   What items would you suggest in creating a desktop altar?  Please include space-saving considerations.

Select something that is personally meaningful.  Start by stilling yourself and become aware of clues from your inner self for some things that are just right.  Suggestions include a special shell, stone, photo/picture, flower, cloth, something to hold, art, fountain, a book, plant (i.e. prayer plant, or a violet to care for), feather, finger labyrinth, or a gift from someone special. A saying or a significant symbol could be used as a screensaver.  Under various circumstances, a calendar with inspiring sayings or artwork may be just right.

4.  Any tips for how to keep it under the radar of coworkers or bosses, but still give it private significance?

• Use an ordinary object with personal significance that is linked to a belief, memory or a goal.  Consider blessing it first.
• Keep it ‘for your eyes only’ by tucking it away, like in a drawer that you use often.

5.  What items (if any) should be avoided?

• Candles (fire hazard)
• Items that could offend others (things that could fall into the realm of religious, sexual, racial, or political bias)
• Things that are distracting.
• Anything against office policies.
• Things that you are not willing to explain, discuss or defend.
  

6.  Can you give some examples of altars?

• I have a statue of an angel that was given to me by someone special, a quartz crystal wrapped in a beautiful cloth, and some pictures are beside my computer.
• Coworkers of mine and I passed around a tiny angel when times were especially challenging.  We took turns with ‘hosting’ her and felt divine support and protection as well as the support of one another.   We kept it as long as it felt right and then passed it along. The angel was always floating around among us.  This happened at a large and busy medical clinic.  I no longer work there and she was in my care at the time I left – of course I passed it along so it would keep working it’s magic.
• A friend of mine wears a mala on days when she needs extra strength and courage.

→ Julie Lusk, M.Ed. is available to speak about Desktop Yoga ® and a variety of wellness and mind/body topics at your special event.

Check out her books and relaxation CDs now.

Please copy and distribute.

Thank you for NOT changing the information or removing contact information.

“This beautifully written book is well-laid out, easy to follow, and is chock full of helpful and powerful information. The relaxation scripts are incredible. They are sure to assist in helping everyone to find more peace, ease, and healing in their lives. This is a much-needed guide in times of discomfort and stress.”
— M. Mala Cunningham, PhD, C-IAYT, counseling psychologist, university faculty, and specialist in medical yoga, neuroscience, and mindfulness

Enjoy Pure Bliss and True Relaxation with Yoga Nidra

Media:  Contact Kat Neff  or call 510-332-4968

Print & eBooks

• • • • Llewellyn here
      • Amazon  here  for print | audiobook | eBook
      • Barnes & Noble here for print | eBook
      • Julie Lusk’s Amazon Author Page listing all her books
      • Virtual Yoga Nidra classes with Julie Lusk on Zoom. Details & registration.

Audiobook 

• Audible  – Free with Audible trial. Instantly get Yoga Nidra Meditations with this exclusive link.
  • Bonus: Free 3-month Audible membership for new members!
• iTunes
• Amazon
• Yoga Nidra Meditations Audio Supplement here

Get the calm and focus you need. Yoga Nidra makes it entirely possible to clear your mind, settle your emotions, and reach a unique state of calm, focused awareness.  These empowering meditations combine yoga’s ancient and modern teachings and techniques, all backed by contemporary science. Yoga Nidra is done lying down, not sitting.

Yoga Nidra is “yogic sleep.” You’ll feel genuine peace. Reclaim your energy with deeply restorative rest.  It is tremendously healing for the body, mind, and spirit. It revitalizes your inner reservoir of intuitive understanding, unconditional joy, and awakens your true self.

Yoga Nidra Meditations has something for everyone!

♥ It’s great for relaxation, boosting immunity, balancing the nervous system, improving heart health, and decreasing cravings.

♥ Enhances your memory, concentration and brain function.

♥ Eases anxiety, depression, chronic pain, insomnia and more.

♥ Increases happiness, calmness, creativity & energy.

♥ Specialized meditations for kids, teens, women, men, and military/veterans.

♥ Enables you to make durable lifestyle changes.  

         ♥ Use this recording to experience the power of yoga nidra.

Yoga Nidra Meditations includes:

♥  Twenty-four scripts written by the author and twelve of the world’s master teachers including:

Sri Swami Satchidananda, Swami, Shankardev Saraswati, MD, Kamini Desai, PhD, Uma Dinsmore-Tuli, PhD, Amy Weintraub, Rose Kress, Marc Halpern, Viviana Collazo, Stephanie Lopez, Robin Carnes, Karen Brody, and Jennifer Reis.

♥  Clear explanation on everything about yoga nidra.

♥  Complete guidelines for practicing effectively.

♥  How to lead others.

Author Julie Lusk, MEd, E-RYT-500, NCC, has specialized in yoga, relaxation training, guided imagery, and meditation for decades. An international writer, recording artist, and workshop leader, Julie is talented in bringing the best out in others through her depth of knowledge, natural lightheartedness, and caring nature. Julie’s six books include Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief, Yoga Meditations, and two volumes of 30 Scripts for Relaxation, Imagery, and Inner Healing.  See her complete catalog of books & audios here. 

Praise for Yoga Nidra Meditations

“Julie is a master at helping us relax. In her new book she offers her own relaxation scripts, as well as a sampling from other gifted teachers, that guide us in the essentials of relaxation for different states of body and mind. This book is one to keep on the bedside and buy a couple for stressed out friends, they will thank you.”
—Nischala Joy Devi, author of The Secret Power of Yoga, The Namaste Effect, and The Healing Path of Yoga

“This beautifully written book is well-laid out, easy to follow, and is chock full of helpful and powerful information. The relaxation scripts are incredible and are sure to assist in helping everyone to find more peace, ease, and healing in their lives. This is a much-needed guide in times of discomfort and stress.”
—M. Mala Cunningham, PhD, C-IAYT, counseling psychologist, university faculty, and specialist in medical yoga, neuroscience, and mindfulness

“Julie Lusk’s inspirational book provides an indispensable guide to the healing practice of Yoga Nidra…Julie’s expertise and generous heart shine through and make her the perfect companion to guide you along the Yoga Nidra path. This is a book to be treasured and returned to over again.”
—Jilly Shipway, author of Yoga Through the Year and Yoga by the Stars

“Having experienced several of the Yoga Nidra practices from this book, taught by Julie herself, I can confidently say that they are immensely enjoyable and relaxing. Each practice guides you in a unique way, but all of them leave you with a profound sense of well-being.”
—Zac Parker, MA, RYT-500, online programs coordinator at Yogaville

“Julie Lusk has captured the essence of Yoga Nidra, meditation, and beyond from the great masters, present and past, and has added her own great contributions. Highly recommended.”
—Larry Payne, PhD, E-RYT500, author of AARP’s Yoga After 50 For Dummies and Yoga Rx

“Julie Lusk created this work in the spirit of Yoga Nidra—with relaxed expectation of divine blessings—and she effortlessly transmits that peaceful joy through these healing scripts…Julie brings together an inspired crew with centuries of combined experience to make this path of deep healing available in our daily lives.”
—Judith Boice, award-winning author of The Green Medicine Chest and practicing naturopathic physician

“Julie Lusk’s clear, direct, joyful voice explains everything you ever wanted to know about Yoga Nidra. Whether you are a novice or an experienced practitioner, this is your go-to reference book, explaining how, where, and when to practice it, the philosophy behind it, ways to get the most out of it, tips for instructing others, and a whole cache of scripts…her sheer delight with this practice shines through every joyful page.”
—Belleruth Naparstek, ACSW, BCD, author of Invisible Heroes and producer of the Health Journeys Guided Imagery and Meditation audio library

“Master yoga teacher Julie Lusk has enthusiastically and lovingly taken the ancient subject of Yoga Nidra and made it useful and relevant for today. The meditations are clear, practical, and uplifting. It truly reveals our source of genuine peace and happiness in such a delightful yet helpful manner. It’s a fun read—and a treasure.”
—Lilias Folan, author of Lilias! Yoga Gets Better with Age, host of the television series Lilias, Yoga, and You, and known as the First Lady of Yoga

“A timely and much needed manual…this practical book offers such a rich variety of practices that have been tailored for this modern era and address a broad range of benefits that readers will be inspired to engage. Yoga Nidra Meditations is a must read for everyone wishing to experience and interweave Yoga Nidra and its marvelous benefits into their daily life. ”
—Richard Miller, PhD, developer of iRest Yoga Nidra Meditation and author of Yoga Nidra: A Meditative Practice for Deep Relaxation and Healing

“This book is a treasure trove of Yoga Nidra scripts from the author and other noted masters in the field…You will find scripts for children, teens, men, women, or anyone in chairs, as well as a multitude of purposes and intentions. No teacher or practitioner of yoga is complete without a Yoga Nidra practice, perhaps the simplest yet most profound experience that yoga has to offer.”
—Anodea Judith, PhD, author of Wheels of Life and Anodea Judith’s Chakra Yoga

Print & eBooks

• • • • Llewellyn here
      • Amazon  here  for print | audiobook | eBook
      • Barnes & Noble here for print | eBook
      • Julie Lusk’s Amazon Author Page listing all her books
      • Virtual Yoga Nidra classes with Julie Lusk on Zoom. Details & registration.

Audiobook 

• Audible  – Free with Audible trial. Instantly get Yoga Nidra Meditations with this exclusive link.
  • Bonus: Free 3-month Audible membership for new members!
• iTunes
• Amazon
• Yoga Nidra Meditations Audio Supplement here

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...

Price: $19.99

Quantity:  

Go to the CART to review your order & check out.  

Hi

I never thought I’d ever be a writer, national speaker or recording artist.  In fact, I had good reasons for those beliefs, but that’s a different story.  But here I am, living proof that if you allow the flow of life, intuition, grace, good relationships, synchronicity, inspiration and action to be your guide and foundation, surprising things happen.  Somehow, your own true purpose and path will find you and support your efforts (yes, it also takes honing your skills and hard work too).

These days, I’m fortunate to regularly offer weekly yoga classes in-person and virtually. National and international  workshops on yoga, meditation, guided imagery and deep relaxation are given.  This combo gives me a nice balance of having the joy and comfort of cultivating ongoing relationships and watching people grow in body, mind and spirit, with the stimulation and challenge of designing original workshops and retreats, meeting new people and traveling to interesting places.

Businesses, schools and various organizations often invite me in to offer training in Desktop Yoga (R), stress management, and wellness strategies.  It’s so rewarding to watch people begin feeling energized and empowered on the spot!

I love learning.  I earned a graduate degree from VA Tech in counseling and have received training in numerous types of yoga ranging from extremely relaxing to quite vigorous. This centered me on the middle path.  There have been plenty of courses and retreats in yoga nidra, meditation, guided imagery, deep relaxation, energy work, and music.  Of course, living life, and my family and friends, have taught me the most.  See more about my education, training, and publications here.

Wholesome Resources is the interesting business I developed over 20 years ago.  We believe that stress relief, wellness strategies, and mind-body techniques are essential ingredients for personal and professional happiness.  We offer training and workshops for large and small groups at both worksites and retreat centers.  Individual mentoring too.

In the past, my work has included being regional director of six hospital-based holistic health and wellness centers (2 yrs), director of a health management center at a large medical clinic (10 yrs), assistant dean of students at a liberal arts college (7 yrs), director of a community college special services program (4 years), volunteer director of the Alive & Well Coalition (5 yrs), an awareness counselor in WV (2 yrs) … and other duties as assigned.

My home, with my husband and dogs, is in the greater Cincinnati area.  For fun, I enjoy making friends, hiking, playing music (flute, drums, harmonium, didgeridoo), making art messes, and reading all sorts of stuff.  I look forward to meeting you!

Julie Lusk, M.Ed., NCC, RYT-E500

Wholesome Resources ~~  Founder & Chieftess

Wholesome Resources and Services Provided

Julie is available as a business and conference speaker and consultant to groups and individuals.  Her books, recordings and other materials are plentiful.

Presenter and Professional Speaker (partial list)

• Businesses: Procter & Gamble, Fidelity Investments, General Electric, City of Staunton, Ethicon/J&J, Xpedx, Convergys, Cincinnati Bell, Lewis-Gale Medical Center, Allstate Insurance and more
• Yoga and Meditation Centers:  Kripalu (19 years), Jesuit Spiritual Center (9 years), Discovery Yoga (4 years), Sivananda / Bahamas, Satchidananda (10 years)– Satchidananda Ashram/Yogaville (7 years) and more
• Colleges and Universities:  University of Cincinnati, Roanoke College, Virginia Tech, University of Western Australia, Hollins College, and more.
• National Conventions:  National Wellness Conference (16 years), NICABM ( 10 years), Speaking of Women’s Health  (4 years), National Flute Convention (2 years), International Symposium on Community Health (Washington, Hong Kong, Japan) and more.
• Non-Profit Groups:  American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, Jamaican Cancer Society, Council of Community Services, American Red Cross and more.

Published Books 

• Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation, Llewellyn, Woodbury, MN. 2021
• Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief, New Harbinger Publications, Oakland, CA. 2015
• Yoga Meditations: Timeless Mind-Body Practices for Awakening, Whole Person Associates, Duluth, MN. 2005
• Desktop Yoga, Penguin Group / Perigee Books, New York, NY.  1998.  Translated into Spanish, Dutch and German
• 30 Scripts for Relaxation, Imagery and Inner Healing, Vol. 2, Whole Person Associates, Duluth, MN.  1993
• 30 Scripts for Relaxation, Imagery and Inner Healing, Vol. 1, Whole Person Associates, Duluth, MN.  1992. Translated into Spanish and Italian

Audio Recordings

• Refreshing Journeys and many others (Whole Person Associates, Duluth, MN)
• Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Guided Mindfulness Meditations (Health Journeys)
• Yoga Nidra: Guided Meditations for Relaxation & Renewal (Health Journeys)
• Sa Ta Na Ma Meditation (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Power of Presence CD (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Wholesome Relaxation CD (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Wholesome Energizers CD (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Blue Moon Rising CD (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Many other

E-Books 

• Mind Body Mastery:  Guided Imagery, Meditation, Real Relaxation
• Stress Solutions Now
• Power Napper – Guided Relaxation
• 108 Easy Energy Answers
• Yoga on the Go (coming soon)
  
• The Original Desktop Yoga (coming soon)
• Desktop Yoga Strategies to Calm Down, Get Energized, Spark Creativity & Reduce Frustration (coming soon)

Clients

Her clients have included Procter & Gamble, Fidelity Investments, University of Cincinnati, General Electric, City of Staunton, Ethicon/J&J, Xpedx, Convergys, Cincinnati Bell, Lewis-Gale Medical Center, Allstate Insurance and more.

Julie has developed stress management materials and wellness programs for such organizations as the City of Staunton, Roanoke College, Medco Health and many others.

Her relaxation, imagery and affirmation CD’s are being used on an ongoing basis at Good Samaritan Hospital, American Heart Association, Hospice of Cincinnati, St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, American and Jamaican Cancer Societies, VA Tech and other organizations nationwide.

Media

She has appeared as a guest on numerous radio and television shows for CBS, ABC, FOX, ESPN and NBC affiliates, as well as South China Morning Post and Hong Kong Metro News Radio.

Yoga Journal, New Woman Magazine, Cincinnati Enquirer, Business Courier, Vegetarian Times, Body& Soul Journal for Holistic Living, Cincinnati Woman, IDEA Today, Roanoker, Wellness Management, among other publications, have featured Julie’s work in articles.

Julie’s Professional Awards and Commendations include 

• National Certified Counselor since 1985.  Julie was a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia for 20 years
• Registered E-500 Yoga Teacher via the Yoga Alliance since 2001
• YACEP (Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider) since 2015
• Award for Excellence in Health Promotion – Wellness Councils of America
• Outstanding Community Service Award – Council of Community Services, Roanoke, Virginia
• Business Associate of the Year- American Business Women’s Association    

Please contact Julie Lusk now.

513-248-9642 (yoga)

Click here to email.