Significance of Yoganidra
Yoganidra is a concept in various traditions that denotes a state of deep sleep or meditative consciousness. In Vaishnavism, it refers specifically to the Supreme Lord's transcendental state, where He rests and contemplates creation, influencing the cosmic cycle. This state is associated with deep, conscious relaxation and is also recognized in scientific and yogic practices as a technique for enhancing mental and physical well-being. Overall, Yoganidra serves as a bridge between deep relaxation and spiritual connection.
Synonyms: Yogic sleep, Psychic sleep, Guided meditation, Deep relaxation, Relaxation technique
In Dutch: Yoganidra; In Spanish: Yoganidra; In Finnish: Jooganidra
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Yoganidra'
Yoganidra in Hinduism signifies a profound state of divine sleep and meditation, associated with gods like Vishnu and Krishna. It embodies cosmic rest and the integration of consciousness, reflecting the interplay between the divine and creation.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The yogic sleep that Lord Vishnu fell into after becoming exceedingly tired, symbolizing deep meditation or transcendental rest.[1] (2) A state of deep, divine sleep associated with Lord Vishnu, enabling cosmic rest and renewal.[2] (3) The meditative sleep that Brahma prays to; it denotes a force that keeps Vishnu in a state of deep sleep.[3]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The yogic slumber of Lord Vishnu, symbolizing his divine consciousness and participation in the cosmic cycle.[4] (2) Yogic slumber; a state of deep rest and meditation asserted as the Lord's state while preserving the universe.[5] (3) A state of divine sleep associated with the eternal Brahman, Hari.[6]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A state of divine sleep or illusion that allowed Vasudeva to pass secretly with the child.[7] (2) The term for the mystical sleep of devotion that facilitated the transfer of an embryo, highlighting the mystical elements in the births of divine figures.[8] (3) The great illusory energy of Vishnu that facilitates the deceptive appearances crucial to the unfolding of the divine narrative.[9]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A state of divine sleep or cosmic rest associated with Krishna at the end of a cosmic cycle.[10] (2) The state of divine sleep or trance in which the entire universe is submerged during the cosmic dissolution.[11]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) A term referring to the deep meditative sleep or trance state of Vishnu.[12] (2) An incarnation of goddess Mahamaya that symbolizes the active principle of illusion.[13]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The deep sleep or meditative state experienced by Vishnu at the end of Yugas.[14]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A term describing a trance-like state similar to deep sleep, in which the spirit maintains an awareness of everything within itself.[15]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Yogic slumber that consists of the Maya of the Atman, through which Lord Hari meditates on himself.[16]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) A divine figure responsible for transferring the seventh child of Devaki to Rohini's womb to protect it from Kamsa.[17]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The state of deep rest or meditation that Lord Vishnu is believed to enter during His four-month period of rest.[18] (2) Yoga-nidra refers to a form of yoga associated with sleep that enables the vanquishing of external feelings. It represents the Lord's energy and is compared to deep rest.[19] (3) Mystic sleep displayed by Gaurahari that brings relief to the anxious spectators, indicating the transcendental nature of his presence.[20] (4) The mystic sleep state that Shriman Mahaprabhu entered into after His meal.[21] (5) Yogic concept referred to as mystic sleep, under which individuals experience deep rest.[22]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The highest form of psychic activity or self-actualization, referring to the deep meditative state that integrates consciousness and divine presence.[23] (2) A state of deep, conscious rest or sleep in which the Supreme Lord is described as resting and contemplating creation, highlighting His omnipotence.[24]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The creative sleep of the Supreme Being during which the cosmos is generated.[25]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) sleeps in a mystic trance[26]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The state of deep, divine sleep of the Supreme God, wherein He rests while the universe remains in dissolution.[27]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A state of Yogic slumber from which Lord Narayana awakens.[28]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) The final state of merging of latent impressions and intellect in all beings.[29]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) A state of restful awareness and deep bliss generated during advanced meditation, often associated with yogis.[30]
The concept of Yoganidra in scientific sources
Yoganidra is described as a form of yogic sleep that facilitates profound relaxation, affecting both mental and emotional states, with its practice duration yielding restorative benefits akin to extended hours of actual sleep.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) A form of guided meditation in Yoga that can assist pregnant women in relaxation, enhancing their emotional health during the pregnancy period.[31] (2) A form of guided meditation aimed at relaxation and stress relief.[32] (3) A specific form of conscious sleep or relaxation technique practiced in Yoga, contributing to physical and mental health.[33] (4) Yoga nidra is a form of guided meditation that promotes deep relaxation and is beneficial for stress reduction and mental clarity.[34] (5) A form of guided meditation aimed at achieving deep relaxation and stress relief.[35]
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) A relaxation technique in Yoga that contributes to improved sleep patterns and overall mental health.[36] (2) A form of guided meditation that promotes relaxation and reduces maternal stress during pregnancy.[37] (3) A deep relaxation or sleep-like state achieved through guided meditation in yoga, beneficial for stress reduction.[38]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
(1) A specific form of yoga described as a conscious sleep or yogic sleep that aids in handling mental disorders and promotes relaxation.[39] (2) A relaxation technique aiming to enhance relaxation, included in the intervention for patients with hypertension.[40]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine
(1) A form of yogic sleep that induces relaxation on mental and emotional levels, with a practice duration that provides deep relaxation comparable to hours of sleep.[41]