Preparation for guided meditation
As with other Yoga disciplines the following should be remembered:
Clothing:
Should be loose and comfortable, a blanket may be of use if the ambient temperature is cool and as yoga nidra is practiced in shavasana and meditation has a tendency to slow body function a light covering may increase comfort.
Ornaments:
The removal of all jewellery such as watches, rings and other ornamentation as well as spectacles – yoga nidra is practiced with the eyes closed - is recommended.
Environment:
It is best to practice in a quiet, dark, ventilated room; the use of fans if the temperature is high is acceptable as long as they run silently. There should be as few distractions as possible.
Time of practice:
Yoga nidra can be practiced at any time of the day, though it is recommended to wait an hour or so after meals. It can be practiced while sitting in a chair at work to rejuvenate the body and mind or prior to sleep to induce a restful sleep.
Duration:
Is dependant on the time available and nature of the practice. It can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 2 hours.
During the practice:
- Be comfortable
- The body should remain motionless throughout the practice
- Release all thoughts
- Avoid intellectualization of the instruction
- Trying to remember or memorize the instruction is a distraction
- Follow the instruction spontaneously
- Follow the instruction with ease and comfort
- Flow with the sound of the voice
return to yoga page
