Being Still - Yoga Nidra

Being Still - Yoga Nidra is one in a series of guided relaxations by Annette Brown, that teach simple, body-based techniques designed to help us all cope with the stresses of modern life.

Annette has taught relaxation techniques to individuals and to groups for over 20 years and the Yoga Nidra relaxation on this app is a tried and tested practice that has proved useful and effective for her students.

Yoga Nidra 25:05

Yoga Nidra is said to create a perfect state of relaxation. The instructions rotate awareness around the body and once the process becomes familiar you realise it is indeed a systematic method for inducing complete physical, mental and emotional relaxation.

Nidra is a Sanskrit word often translated as 'sleep' but more correctly understood as 'relaxation'. Yoga Nidra is based on ancient Yogic texts and was simplified and made into an accessible practice for everyday use by Swami Satyananda Saraswati in the early 1960's. It is a version of his widely used Nidra which Annette takes you through here. During the relaxation there are two opportunities to make a positive suggestion to yourself, a resolve, a goal or an affirmation. Make this a short, positive phrase e.g. 'I am calm and confident', 'I easily retain my studies', 'I am here now', 'I love and respect myself'.

The deeper levels of our being are very sensitive to conscious suggestions when we are truly relaxed and they can take root more strongly. To be effective the phrase needs to be memorable and in your own words. For further examples of positive 'resolves' or affirmations to work with please see the App support page on the Being Still web site. There you will find some suggestions and ideas which you can use to help construct your own phrase choosing your words carefully.

Yoga Nidra can be used as a wind down before sleep or even as an alternative to sleep, a 'power-nap'. This short, concentrated period of deep rest can top-up energy levels, supporting health and well-being and aiding concentration. Use the Nidra as first aid for a tired body and mind.

The Yoga Nidra relaxation is also available as one of a complete collection of Annette Brown's 5 Being Still relaxations on the Being Still App, the others being:

Tension Awareness Movements 11:15

These simple movements reveal patterns of tension in the body and release them. They are quick to do and easy to learn from the explanation and guided talk through on this relaxation.

Short Body Scan 6:55

This is ideal when you have a moment to step out of the busy forward flow of life and take a restful pause. It is also useful as a wind down before sleep. Taking awareness through the body, softening areas of held tension will start to quieten the chattering mind.

Garden Visualisation 5:27

As the body rests the mind can be focused on the positive experience of being in a garden. Visualise your own imaginary garden or bring to mind a garden you know. Regular practice can turn the garden into your own peaceful sanctuary and a safe place to deeply rest. 

Deep Relaxation 12:10

This practice shifts awareness from the stories in your away from a busy mind to the feelings and sensations in your body. Feeling the relaxed muscles and the calm breath begins to quieten the mental activity.

The Being Still - Yoga Nidra app is designed to be used with earphones and requires your device's sound to be turned on.