Yog Nidra is a simple yoga technique that de-stresses mind and rejuvenates your body. Yog Nidra is not conventional sleeping but consciously relaxing your mind and body. This is particularly useful when you are struggling to sleep during pregnancy or after the birth of your baby.
Regular practice of Yog Nidra reduces fatigue and sleeplessness, a way to fill your mind with positive thoughts and keep your mood stable throughout pregnancy.
Note: Though these postures are easy and can be practised at home, it’s advisable to consult a doctor before starting them.
Procedure:
1. Lie on your back in shavasana with eyes closed. Take a few deep breaths slowly.
2. Start by focusing on your right foot. Concentrate on it for a few seconds and then as you relax your foot, shift your focus to the knee, then thigh and hip. Stop at each body part for a few seconds so that you can feel your whole right leg.
3. Repeat the process for the left leg.
4. Similarly, focus on all the other parts of your body — genital area, stomach, navel, chest, right shoulder and right arm, followed by the left shoulder and left arm, throat, face and head.
5. Take a deep breath in, observe the sensations in your body, and relax in this still state for a few minutes.
6. Now, slowly becoming aware of your body and surroundings, turn to your right side and lie down for a few more minutes.
7. Lie down as long as you want and then slowly sit and open your eyes.
Benefits:
1. It helps in reducing stress thus overcoming sleep deficit.
2. When practised during the first trimester, it is believed to help those who suffer nausea, vomiting or are vulnerable to miscarriages.
3. It helps you to understand and become more aware of the developments in your body during the second trimester. It may also help mild cases of oedema, fatigue and insomnia.
4. In the third trimester, Yog Nidra may continue to help you relax, build stamina and keep off fears of labour.
Note: If lying down causes any discomfort for the lower back, support the back and feet with a pillow.
For more information call 800-YOGA(9642) or log on to www.artisticyoga.com
