How Yoga Nidra Transformed My Rest and Productivity

Do you ever find yourself struggling with sleep, or not getting as much rest as you need? I wouldn't say that insomnia is a regular issue, but I'm no stranger to it. Even when I give myself enough sleep opportunity, the quality isn't always what it should be. Sometimes life is just too full for too many days in a row, and I can't accumulate enough sleep over the week. In these times, I find myself dragging through the afternoon, staring like a zombie at my work tasks.

Often, a simple nap would help get me back on track. But sometimes I've had just a little too much caffeine, work stress is too much, or it's simply impractical to successfully fall asleep for 20 minutes to recharge.

Luckily, I've found incredible relief through the practice of Yoga Nidra. Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation technique, more akin to self-hypnosis than standard mindfulness practices.

The effects of this practice have been profound for me. Twenty minutes of Yoga Nidra is at least as restful as a 20-minute nap. Sometimes the rest is so deep that I'm not sure whether I actually slept or not.

It has become an indispensable part of my self-care routine. Stepping away from work for 20 minutes can restore my vigor and focus, making the rest of my day much more impactful. Sometimes when I know I'm running at the edge of exhaustion, I'll avoid going into the office so that I know I'll have the time and space for this practice.

There are lots of videos on YouTube, but Ally Boothroyd is the undisputed GOAT. Just search for any length of time that you need, and she probably has a video that will cover you. If you need some specific places to start, this 23 minute is a great option for minimal commitment. For particularly difficult insomnia experiences, her 2-hour Sleep has done wonders to salvage more than a few nights for me.

If you're struggling with sleep, stress, or simply need a quick way to recharge during busy days, I highly recommend giving Yoga Nidra a try. It's a simple, accessible practice that can have profound effects on your rest and mood. Start with a short session and see how it impacts your day. You might just find, like I did, that it becomes an indispensable tool for maintaining balance and productivity in your life.