Yoga Nidra : When to Practise Yoga Nidra

When to Practise Yoga Nidra

Swami Janakananda suggests that it is highly beneficial to practise Yoga Nidra when we are

exhausted from work. As it brings us into such a deep state of relaxation, it will be more

effective than a normal nap. We will “awake” feeling more refreshed, and are afterwards able

to get more from our leisure time. He also suggests its use by those who suffer from insomnia

or are dependent on sleeping pills. Studies conducted by the Scandinavian Yoga and

Meditation School have shown that Yoga Nidra can improve sleep, especially when practised

during the day. However, it can also be done at bedtime. (Janakananda 1983)

Swami Janakananda advises against doing Yoga Nidra right after a heavy meal or drinking

coffee. To strengthen the effect of Yoga Nidra, he recommends using the exercise Tratak,

where one concentrates on the flame of a candle, right before practising Yoga Nidra. If the

practice was to be combined with yoga and breathing exercises, Yoga Nidra should be done

after them. (Janakananda 1983)