Significance of Yoganidra
Synonyms: Yoga nidra, Sleep yoga, Yogic sleep, Psychic sleep, Guided meditation, Deep relaxation, Conscious relaxation, Relaxation technique
In Dutch: Yoganidra; In German: Yoganidra; In Spanish: Yoganidra; In Swedish: Yoganidra; In Malay: Yoganidra; In French: Yoganidra; In Portugese: Yoganidra; In Italian: Yoganidra; In Finnish: Jooganidra; In Polish: Joganidra
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'
In Hinduism, Yoganidra encompasses diverse interpretations. It's a state of deep rest, meditative sleep, or transcendental consciousness, often associated with Lord Vishnu. It can also be a practice for relaxation, stress reduction, and healing, and it facilitates cosmic rest and spiritual awareness.
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) Yoga nidra has an impact on menstrual abnormalities in females of reproductive age.[1] (2) A systematic process developed from Vedic texts to induce total physical, mental, and emotional rest, which has proven to be a successful approach for managing and preventing lifestyle problems.[2] (3) Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation technique that promotes deep physical and mental relaxation, and can be used to address insomnia and other sleep-related issues.[3] (4) This is a meditative procedure aimed at transforming the mind and body, also known as Yogic sleep, psychic sleep, or sleeping consciously, derived from Sanskrit words meaning union and sleep.[4] (5) Originating from traditional practices, this technique, also known as yogic sleep, is a method that promotes deep relaxation while maintaining awareness, and is linked to various physiological changes.[5]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) A structured relaxation exercise, that has been shown to significantly lower stress levels in patients.[6] (2) A ‘sleep’ where all the burdens are thrown off to attain a blissful state.[7] (3) A practice that, along with Om chanting, can reduce depression, anxiety, stress and improve sleep quality.[8] (4) It aims to focus the mind to achieve relaxation and increase wellness, being qualitatively different from relaxation techniques.[9] (5) A practice that can be followed by pranayama and meditation and helps women bond with their infants.[10]
From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine
(1) Yoga nidra reduces pain by stimulating the Pituitary gland.[11]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The yogic sleep that Lord Vishnu fell into after becoming exceedingly tired, symbolizing deep meditation or transcendental rest.[12] (2) A state of deep, divine sleep associated with Lord Vishnu, enabling cosmic rest and renewal.[13] (3) The meditative sleep that Brahma prays to; it denotes a force that keeps Vishnu in a state of deep sleep.[14]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A state of divine sleep or illusion that allowed Vasudeva to pass secretly with the child.[15] (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.[16] (3) The great illusory energy of Vishnu that facilitates the deceptive appearances crucial to the unfolding of the divine narrative.[17]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The deep sleep or meditative state experienced by Vishnu at the end of Yugas.[18]
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.[19]
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.[20] (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.[21] (3) Mystic sleep displayed by Gaurahari that brings relief to the anxious spectators, indicating the transcendental nature of his presence.[22] (4) The mystic sleep state that Shriman Mahaprabhu entered into after His meal.[23] (5) Yogic concept referred to as mystic sleep, under which individuals experience deep rest.[24]
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.[25] (2) A state of deep, conscious rest or sleep in which the Supreme Lord is described as resting and contemplating creation, highlighting His omnipotence.[26]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The creative sleep of the Supreme Being during which the cosmos is generated.[27]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) sleeps in a mystic trance[28]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The state of deep, divine sleep of the Supreme God, wherein He rests while the universe remains in dissolution.[29]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A state of Yogic slumber from which Lord Narayana awakens.[30]
The concept of Yoganidra in local and regional sources
Yoganidra, as described by Jason Birch and Jacqueline Hargreaves, refers to the enlightened, aware sleep of Vishnu, distinct from ordinary sleep. It is a concept that explores the divine sleep within a historical and contextual framework.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Yoga Nidra is described in the text as one of the practices detailed step by step, along with Ajapa Japa and Nadayoga, including live class transcriptions.[31] (2) Describes the divine sleep of Vishnu that is enlightened and aware, contrary to ordinary sleep.[32]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is an understanding of the History and Context, written by Jason Birch and Jacqueline Hargreaves, available online.[33]
The concept of Yoganidra in scientific sources
Yoganidra, a guided meditation practice, is a technique promoting deep relaxation and conscious awareness. It aids stress reduction, improves mental clarity, and enhances well-being. It is also used for pain management, improved sleep, and mental health.
From: Journal of Public Health in Africa
(1) A type of yoga that is a powerful meditation technique, where the mind is still conscious during the ‘unconscious’ state associated with deep sleeping.[34]