What happens in this class?
This is not a postural yoga (asana) class. Instead, you lie down on your mat and settle in comfortably with some simple stretches, twists, and breathing. Under guided instructions with music, your body enters a state of deep relaxation while your mind continues to be awake and aware, creating a unique and powerful state of consciousness that can be used beneficially. You are in charge of your experience at all times.
10m: Preparation
40m: Core practice
10m: Silent meditation
10m: Free to sit or lie down or ask questions or leave quietly
What is yoga nidra?
The Sanskrit word yoga means union or perfect awareness, and nidra means sleep. Yoga nidra is a state where the body appears to be asleep, the mind is awake, and a deeper level of awareness sets in. This state has many serendipitous benefits for daily life. Yoga nidra is also the name of the practice that may take you to this state.
How can it help?
This practice may:
- Relax deeply
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Reduce mild depression
- Reduce pain and dependency on drugs
- Provide relief from insomnia and improve quality of sleep
- Improve clarity of thought and memory
- Improve learning capacity and acquisition of new skills
- Improve overall health and healing
- Balance emotions
- …and others
It is not, however, intended to replace qualified medical advice and/or treatment.
What if I have specific health needs?
Please talk to me and I shall do my best to make the class accessible for you. If you face challenging mental health conditions that may not benefit from introversion, please attend at your discretion. Again, please feel free to talk to me if in doubt.
When: Wednesday nights 19.50-21.00 starting 6 Nov (continued on 13, 20, 27 Nov, picking up again next term)
Where: Seminar Room, Jack King Building
What to wear: Something warm and comfortable
What to bring: Yoga mat, blanket (optional but feels good), eye mask (optional), water
What it costs: Free for all — bring your friends!
About the guide: Kanya Kanchana is engaged in practice, teaching, and Sanskrit philological research at the intersection of tantra and yoga, and is currently doing her Research MPhil in Sanskrit Studies. She has been teaching internationally for 10+ years. Email: kk682@cam.ac.uk