The Yogi’s Sleep

Sep 21, 2023

Getting good sleep has become a challenge for people of all ages, including children. With the rise in stress, overstimulation, and digital distractions, the importance of restful sleep cannot be overstated. Enter yoga nidra, a guided relaxation practice that has gained enormous popularity in recent years.

Referred to as the "Sleep of the Yogis," Yoga nidra offers a pathway to better sleep, particularly for children who may struggle with falling and staying asleep. Yoga nidra, derived from the Sanskrit words "yoga" meaning "to awaken" and "nidra" meaning "sleep," encapsulates the essence of guided relaxation. This practice involves lying comfortably in a tranquil environment while a skilled instructor guides participants step-by-step through various layers of the mind and body.

The intention is to surf the edge of deep relaxation without drifting into sleep. Not easy at first. Snores are often a sound you can practice welcoming in during a group yoga nidra practice. While it might initially seem counterintuitive to stay awake during a practice that mimics sleep, this delicate balance is where the magic of Yoga nidra unfolds.

I used to teach yoga nidra to teens who would drop in to a center on the corner of Belmont and Clark in Chicago to get services because they were not stably housed. They needed a shower, a safe place to rest and help finding a job. They were not interested in yoga nidra…whatever that was. But after some gentle coaxing, I would get them into a quiet room and guide them through the process of becoming aware of their body, breath, thoughts and emotions. These young individuals, struggling with instability and chronic tension due to their circumstances, found solace as they were guided to let go and embrace relaxation. Highlighting the therapeutic potential of Yoga nidra, in providing the rest they so desperately needed, they were able to experience some relief from the chronic tension of living on the streets of Chicago.

In a world where experiences in the lives of young ones range from lack of stable housing to lives filled with school, extracurricular activities, and digital engagement, restful sleep can be elusive. Many face challenges when it comes to falling asleep or waking up refreshed. This may be attributed to overstimulation, excessive consumption of stimulating foods and drinks, and unresolved emotions. Yoga nidra offers a unique approach to address these issues by guiding children through a process that encourages awareness of their bodies, breath, thoughts, and emotions.

The correlation between sleep quality and mental health is well-established. Poor sleep patterns can contribute to anxiety and depression, particularly in children. By introducing practices like Yoga nidra, parents and caregivers can empower children to establish healthy sleep habits from an early age, thereby mitigating potential mental health challenges.

While Yoga nidra's benefits for children are evident, this practice is not limited to a specific age group. Adults, too, can reap its rewards in managing stress, enhancing relaxation, and improving sleep quality. In a world marked by constant demands and responsibilities, the allure of a practice that rejuvenates the mind and body holds undeniable appeal.

Interested in a deeper dive? We have an online course that includes instruction for sharing yoga nidra with children as well as practices for adults.