Yoga-Nidra as a mental health booster: A narrative review
Journal name: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
Original article title: Yoga-Nidra as a mental health booster: A narrative review
The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine (JAIM) is an open-access publication promoting collaboration between Ayurveda, traditional medicine, and biomedicine, publishing research on integrative health sciences
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Khushboo Nayak, Kedarmal Verma
Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine:
(A monthly peer-reviewed publication)
Full text available for: Yoga-Nidra as a mental health booster: A narrative review
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2023.100842
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
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Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Yoga-Nidra as a mental health booster: A narrative review”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Yoga:
Yoga is a holistic practice originating from ancient India that combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. It promotes physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance. Various styles cater to different needs, making it versatile for improving overall well-being and enhancing self-awareness.
2) Nidra:
Nidra, often referred to in the context of Yoga Nidra, means 'sleep' in Sanskrit. It is a state of conscious awareness during sleep, allowing practitioners to experience deep relaxation while remaining aware. This technique is used to reduce stress and promote mental clarity.
3) Study (Studying):
A study is a systematic investigation aimed at discovering new information or understanding a phenomenon. In the context of mental health and Yoga Nidra, studies gather data to assess effects and benefits. They help validate yoga practices as effective therapeutic interventions.
4) Mental health:
Mental health refers to cognitive, emotional, and social well-being, which affects how individuals think, act, and feel. It's crucial for overall health and impacts daily life, relationships, and productivity. Maintaining mental health is essential to coping with life's challenges and reducing mental disorders.
5) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a psychological state characterized by feelings of worry, fear, and apprehension. It can manifest physically and impact daily activities. Effective interventions like Yoga Nidra have been found to alleviate anxiety symptoms by promoting relaxation and mental clarity, helping individuals cope better.
6) Meditation:
Meditation is a practice involving focused attention and awareness, often aimed at achieving mental clarity and emotional calmness. It encompasses techniques like mindfulness and guided meditation, including Yoga Nidra, which can enhance mental health by reducing stress and promoting overall well-being.
7) Post:
In a research context, 'post' often refers to assessments or evaluations made after an intervention. For example, post-intervention assessments measure the effects of Yoga Nidra on mental health, allowing researchers to understand its benefits over time and enhance therapeutic practices.
8) Table:
In academic writing, a table is used to present data in a structured format. It aids in visualizing research findings, allowing for easy comparison and analysis. Tables in studies about Yoga Nidra often summarize participant demographics, interventions, and outcome measures.
9) India:
India is the birthplace of yoga, rich in philosophical and spiritual traditions. It is the cultural context for practices like Yoga Nidra, which draws from ancient texts such as the Vedas and Upanishads, promoting holistic well-being through meditation and mindful living.
10) Depression:
Depression is a common mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest. It can affect daily functioning and overall quality of life. Therapeutic practices, such as Yoga Nidra, have emerged as effective interventions to alleviate depressive symptoms and promote mental wellness.
11) Kumar:
Kumar is a common surname in India, often used to denote a male individual. In the context of research, individuals with this surname may have contributed to studies, including those focused on Yoga Nidra and its effects on mental health, showcasing diverse perspectives.
12) Rani:
Rani, meaning 'queen' in Hindi, is also a common surname in India. Researchers with this name have investigated various health interventions, including Yoga Nidra, contributing to the understanding of its impacts on mental health and enhancing therapeutic practices in the medical field.
13) Srivastava (Shri-vastava, Shrivastava, Sri-vastava):
Srivastava is a common Indian surname associated with various professionals in health sciences. Researchers with this name have studied Yoga Nidra's implications on mental health, providing insights into how these practices can improve emotional well-being and psychological health.
14) Ter:
In the context of health, 'ther' as a suffix suggests therapy or treatment. Mental health therapies, such as Yoga Nidra, are increasingly utilized to address issues like anxiety, depression, and stress, reflecting a growing recognition of alternative approaches in medical practice.
15) Bihar:
Bihar is a state in India known for its historical significance and spiritual heritage. It is associated with the origins of Yoga Nidra through notable figures like Swami Satyananda Saraswati. The state's cultural context enriches the understanding of yogic practices and philosophies.
16) Music:
Music often plays a role in therapeutic practices, including Yoga Nidra, enhancing relaxation and mindfulness. It creates a soothing environment that facilitates deeper meditation, helping individuals to alleviate stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of calmness and well-being.
17) Satyananda (Satya-ananda):
Swami Satyananda Saraswati is a key figure in modern yogic practices, renowned for popularizing Yoga Nidra. His teachings emphasize practical applications of yoga for mental health, integrating traditional methods with contemporary therapeutic approaches to foster holistic well-being.
18) Seat (Seated):
Seated refers to a position often adopted during meditation or yogic practices. In Yoga Nidra, practitioners may begin or transition into seated positions for focused breathing and mental preparation, establishing a foundation for deeper relaxation in subsequent stages of practice.
19) Svamin (Swami, Svami, Swamin):
Swami is a title conferred on Hindu monks or spiritual teachers, denoting a person dedicated to a yogic path. Swami Satyananda, a pivotal figure in Yoga Nidra, represents the spiritual guidance that supports practitioners in achieving mental clarity and emotional balance.
20) Pain:
Pain is a physical or emotional response that can significantly impact well-being. In therapeutic contexts, practices like Yoga Nidra aim to mitigate pain sensations through relaxation and mindfulness, positively influencing both psychological and physiological health aspects.
21) Mental disorder:
Mental disorders encompass a wide range of psychological conditions affecting mood, thinking, and behavior. Conditions such as anxiety and depression exemplify mental disorders that can be addressed through therapeutic interventions like Yoga Nidra, offering alternative pathways to recovery and emotional restoration.
22) Suffering:
Suffering refers to the experience of distress or discomfort, often linked to mental health challenges. Practices like Yoga Nidra provide individuals with tools to cope with suffering, promoting mental resilience and emotional healing through relaxation and self-awareness.
23) Activity:
Activity in a health context refers to actions or practices that engage the mind and body. Engaging in activities such as Yoga Nidra can foster relaxation, improve mental clarity, and contribute to overall psychological and emotional health.
24) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition affecting the body's normal functioning. Mental health diseases, like depression and anxiety, can be treated through various interventions, including Yoga Nidra, which aims to restore balance and improve mental and emotional well-being.
25) Anger (Angry):
Anger is a strong emotional response often linked to frustration or perceived threats. Managing anger is essential for mental health. Yoga Nidra and similar practices promote emotional regulation by cultivating a calm mental state, enabling individuals to respond to anger more effectively.
26) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation refers to a significant change or shift in perspective, well-being, or behavior. In the context of Yoga Nidra, practitioners experience transformation in mental clarity, emotional resilience, and overall health, promoting healing and empowerment through dedicated practice.
27) Perception:
Perception relates to the way individuals interpret sensory information and experiences. Yoga Nidra enhances perception by fostering mindfulness, allowing practitioners to become more attuned to their emotions and mental states, leading to greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
28) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the information, awareness, or understanding gained through education or experience. In the context of Yoga Nidra, knowledge encompasses understanding the profound benefits of practice for mental well-being and emotional resilience, enhancing one's capacity for personal growth.
29) Samkalpa (Sankalpa):
Sankalpa, or a resolve, is a focused intention or determination formulated during Yoga Nidra practice. It guides mental and emotional transformations, helping practitioners set meaningful goals and align their subconscious desires with conscious actions, fostering positive life changes.
30) Perumal:
Perumal is a name often associated with figures in Indian spirituality and philosophy. Research contributors with this name may examine the interconnections between Yoga Nidra and mental health, providing valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of yogic practices.
31) Indian:
Indian refers to anything related to India, encompassing its cultural, spiritual, and historical heritage. The rich traditions of India regarding yoga and mental health, including practices like Yoga Nidra, are essential for understanding its efficacy and relevance in holistic healing.
32) Gupta:
Gupta is a common surname in India, representing individuals who may contribute to research in health sciences. Scholars with this name often study Yoga Nidra's effects on mental health, enriching the understanding of its therapeutic applications in diverse populations.
33) Field:
Field typically refers to a specific area of study or practice. In the context of mental health and Yoga Nidra, the field encompasses the exploration of yogic practices, therapeutic methods, and their implications for improving emotional and psychological well-being.
34) Rati:
Rathi is a surname in India and may belong to researchers who investigate the impacts of Yoga Nidra and other practices on mental health. Contributions from those bearing this name enhance the empirical understanding of yoga's therapeutic benefits.
35) Nadi (Nadin):
Nadi refers to the energy channels in the body according to yogic physiology. Practices involving Nadi Shodhana, or alternate nostril breathing, complement Yoga Nidra, enhancing energy flow and contributing to mental clarity and emotional stability through breath control and awareness.
36) Peer review:
Peer review is an academic process where experts evaluate each other's work before publication. This ensures the quality and reliability of research findings, such as studies on Yoga Nidra, validating its effectiveness and broadening its acceptance in scientific and medical communities.
37) Alleviation:
Alleviation is the reduction or easing of a burden or discomfort. In mental health contexts, practices like Yoga Nidra provide alleviation from stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil by promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and a deeper understanding of one's thoughts and feelings.
38) Reliability:
Reliability refers to the consistency and trustworthiness of research results. In studies assessing the effectiveness of Yoga Nidra, establishing reliability is crucial for validating findings and ensuring that the practices have genuine benefits for mental health and well-being.
39) Siddhartha (Siddha-artha):
Siddhartha is a name historically linked to the Buddha, representing a journey of personal transformation and enlightenment. Figureheads with this name may contribute to the understanding of extensive yogic traditions, including the mental health benefits associated with practices like Yoga Nidra.
40) Practising (Practicing):
Practicing refers to the application or execution of techniques or activities. In the context of Yoga Nidra, practicing involves engaging in guided meditation techniques that promote mental well-being, resilience, and emotional stability through consistent and mindful participation.
41) Sambhala (Shambhala):
Shambhala is a term used in various spiritual traditions signifying a mystical land or enlightened community. It is often associated with mindfulness practices. Organizations like Shambhala focus on integrating meditation techniques, including Yoga Nidra, into everyday life for improved mental health.
42) Medicine:
Medicine pertains to the science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses. In recent years, the integration of practices like Yoga Nidra into medical treatment reflects a growing recognition of holistic approaches that enhance mental health and emotional resilience.
43) Learning:
Learning is the process of acquiring knowledge or skills through study or experience. Engaging in practices like Yoga Nidra can enhance learning by fostering mindfulness and concentration, enabling individuals to absorb information more effectively and improve cognitive function.
44) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Studies exploring the effects of yoga on conditions like epilepsy indicate that practices, including Yoga Nidra, may support overall brain health and help manage seizure-related stress, promoting emotional well-being.
45) Kalpana:
Kalpana is a common Indian name that means 'imagination' or 'creativity.' In research contexts, individuals named Kalpana may contribute to studies focused on the intersection of yoga practices and mental health, highlighting the role of creativity in healing and personal growth.
46) Samtana (Santana):
Santana is a name commonly found in Indian heritage. Research contributors with this name may focus on the effects of therapeutic practices like Yoga Nidra on mental health, thereby enriching the understanding of yoga’s benefits across diverse populations.
47) Channel:
Channel can refer to various pathways, including those in the body through which energy flows. In yoga, these channels (Nadis) represent the connection between physical and mental well-being, facilitating healing and emotional clarity through practices like Yoga Nidra.
48) Samtosha (Samtosa, Santosa, Santosha, Santosh):
Santosh is a name often meaning 'contentment' in Hindi and Sanskrit. Researchers with this name may study the impact of Yoga Nidra and other practices on mental health, emphasizing contentment and emotional balance as essential components of well-being.
49) Mishra (Misra):
Mishra is a common surname in India. Experts with this name may contribute to studies on the effectiveness of Yoga Nidra in mental health treatment, helping to explore diverse cultural perspectives on yoga and its therapeutic applications.
50) Reason:
Reason refers to the rational process of thinking, which is essential for decision-making and problem-solving. In the context of mental health, practices like Yoga Nidra can clear mental clutter, enhancing reasoning abilities and promoting constructive thought patterns.
51) Saxena (Sakshena, Saksena):
Saxena is a prominent surname in India, often associated with professionals in health and academia. Researchers with this surname may focus on interventions like Yoga Nidra, contributing to literature on effective methods for improving mental health and emotional well-being.
52) Panda (Pamda):
Panda is an Indian surname often associated with individuals in spiritual or educational fields. Contributions from those with this surname may explore the relationships between yoga practices, like Yoga Nidra, and mental health enhancement, aiding broader public understanding.
53) Priya:
Priya, meaning 'beloved' in Sanskrit, is a common name in India. Individuals with this name may contribute to research on Yoga Nidra, emphasizing its emotional and spiritual facets in promoting mental health and emotional resilience.
54) Patel:
Patel is a common surname among the Indian community, particularly among those involved in agricultural and business occupations. Researchers with this name may focus on the applications of Yoga Nidra within community health, examining its mental health benefits in broader societal contexts.
55) Glass:
Glass may refer to various materials or mediums used in therapeutic settings. In the context of research, it could symbolize transparency in study methodologies, emphasizing the need for clarity when exploring the efficacy of practices like Yoga Nidra in improving mental health.
56) Blood:
Blood can symbolize life and vitality and is integral to understanding physiological responses. In yoga and health studies, exploring blood pressure and circulatory effects related to practices like Yoga Nidra can reveal important insights into its overall health benefits.
57) Sethu:
Sethu is a name of South Indian origin. Contributors to research studies on Yoga Nidra bearing this name may examine diverse cultural practices, adding depth to understanding yoga's role across different regions in enhancing mental health.
58) Raja:
Raja, meaning 'king' in Hindi, signifies leadership and authority. This name may belong to researchers who lead investigations into mental health therapies like Yoga Nidra, pushing for advancements in holistic healing methodologies that promote well-being.
59) Yogi (Yogin):
Yogi refers to an individual who practices yoga regularly, seeking spiritual and physical growth. This term embodies the essence of those engaging in Yoga Nidra for personal development and mental health improvement, representing the commitment to holistic wellness.
60) Beta:
Beta can refer to beta waves, a type of brain wave associated with active thinking and alertness. Understanding how Yoga Nidra influences these waves helps researchers explore mindfulness and cognitive processes, shedding light on brain function and health benefits.
61) Sage:
A sage is a person of profound wisdom, often associated with spiritual learning. Throughout history, sages in Indian culture have contributed to the understanding of yoga's therapeutic potentials, influencing current practices like Yoga Nidra in mental health.
62) Hull:
Hull, as a name, may represent individuals engaged in health research. Those with this name could contribute to understanding how Yoga Nidra impacts physical and psychological health, reflecting interdisciplinary approaches to mental wellness.
63) Pir:
Peer refers to individuals at the same level or status in scholarly fields. Peer validation through collaborative research ensures the quality of studies on Yoga Nidra, helping establish its effectiveness and credibility within the medical community.
64) Male:
Male indicates gender, and understanding its influence in studies can be crucial for comprehending varying responses to Yoga Nidra. Gender dynamics may affect mental health experiences, shaping how men relate to coping strategies like Yoga Nidra.
65) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the use of medications. Comparing pharmacological treatments to non-pharmacological approaches like Yoga Nidra highlights alternative options in managing mental health, emphasizing the growing trend toward holistic and integrative health strategies.
66) Atharvaveda (Atharva-Veda):
The Atharvaveda, one of the four Vedas, represents ancient Indian wisdom and contains knowledge related to health and wellness practices, including aspects of yoga. It provides insight into the historical context of yogic practices like Yoga Nidra and their therapeutic benefits.
67) Measurement:
Measurement in research is the process of quantitatively or qualitatively assessing variables. In studies of Yoga Nidra, measurement techniques are essential for evaluating changes in mental health, providing a foundation for understanding its impact on well-being.
68) Shivananda (Sivananda, Shiva-ananda):
Sivananda is a notable figure in yoga history, known for promoting comprehensive yoga practices. His influence extends to modern interpretations of Yoga Nidra, motivating practitioners to engage in holistic health practices, which enhance mental and emotional resilience.
69) Kamakhya (Kama-akhya):
Kamakhya is a goddess in Hindu mythology, representing fertility and empowerment. In yoga and mental health discussions, invoking sacred motifs related to Kamakhya could underscore the spiritual dimensions of practices like Yoga Nidra and their effects on well-being.
70) Epidemic:
An epidemic refers to a widespread occurrence of an infectious disease or health condition within a community. Current mental health epidemics necessitate the exploration of innovative therapies, such as Yoga Nidra, to address growing concerns related to stress, anxiety, and depression.
71) Language:
Language serves as a medium of communication and understanding. In the context of mental health and yoga, language facilitates the dissemination of knowledge related to practices like Yoga Nidra and the importance of promoting mental well-being across diverse populations.
72) Buddhism (Buddhist tradition):
Buddhist practices incorporate meditation and mindfulness techniques focusing on mental clarity and emotional regulation. The influence of Buddhism on Yoga Nidra highlights shared philosophies related to inner peace and mental health enhancement, bridging traditional eastern practices with contemporary therapeutic approaches.
73) Samadhi:
Samadhi represents a state of meditative absorption and liberation in yogic philosophy. It signifies the ultimate goal of yoga practices, including techniques like Yoga Nidra, aiming to transcend ordinary consciousness and achieve profound states of inner peace and awareness.
74) Dealing:
Dealing refers to managing or coping with specific situations or emotions. In mental health contexts, effective dealing strategies, such as practicing Yoga Nidra, empower individuals to confront stressors and develop healthier emotional responses.
75) Craving (Crave, Craved):
Craving refers to an intense desire for specific experiences, objects, or states. In yoga philosophy, managing cravings is crucial for maintaining balance and mental clarity. Practices like Yoga Nidra assist in understanding and overcoming detrimental cravings, promoting overall psychological health.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 88]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Yoga-Nidra as a mental health booster: A narrative review’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Veda, Upanishad, Yoganidra, Yogic practice, Indian philosophy, Cognitive mechanisms, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Mind-body connection, Psychological well-being, Clinical trial, Neuropsychiatric disorders, Meta-analyses, Mental health disorder, Relaxation technique.