What is Yoga Nidra?

Pregnancy, birth and new motherhood are times of profound change – full of happiness but also full of challenges.  Finding moments of peace and relaxation is essential for your self-care and overall well-being. That is where Yoga Nidra comes in.  It is a deeply restorative practice that can provide much-needed moments of calm for expectant and new mums.   

What is yoga nidra?

Yoga Nidra is often referred to as "yogic sleep" or “effortless relaxation” It is a form of guided meditation that brings the body into a state of deep relaxation while the mind remains alert. Unlike other forms of yoga, which focus on physical postures, Yoga Nidra is practised lying down so it is comfortable for everyone.

During a typical Yoga Nidra session, a teacher guides you through a series of relaxation techniques, breathing exercises and visualisations. This process helps you relax your mind and body.

The benefits of Yoga Nidra in pregnancy

Reducing stress

Pregnancy often brings a rollercoaster of emotions, from joy and excitement to anxiety and stress. Yoga Nidra helps in reducing stress by activating the parasympathetic nervous system which induces a state of calm and relaxation. Regular practice can lead to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, promoting a more balanced emotional state.

Improving the quality of your sleep

It is common for women to struggle with sleep when pregnant often due to physical and hormonal changes or anxiety about childbirth and motherhood. Yoga Nidra will guide your mind and body into a deep state of relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Pain management

As your body changes to accommodate your growing baby many women experience aches and pains, particularly in the back, hips, and legs. Yoga Nidra will help your muscles to soften and release tension allowing the body to relax, reducing pain.

Connecting with your baby

Yoga Nidra can help you connect with your unborn baby.  A visualisation, for example, can include imagery of your baby helping you bond and look forward to meeting them.  

The benefits of Yoga Nidra after the birth

The postpartum period is another time when Yoga Nidra can offer real help and support. 

Recovering from the birth

Childbirth is physically demanding Yoga Nidra promotes healing by enhancing blood flow and reducing stress.

Better sleep and relaxation

If you are having difficulty sleeping, even short sessions of Yoga Nidra can provide the restorative benefits of sleep.  You’ll feel more rested and because you relax so deeply with Yoga Nidra it can also help to alleviate feelings of exhaustion.

Restoring balance

After giving birth your emotions can be a bit all over the place. You may be experiencing the baby blues or feel overwhelmed with your newfound responsibilities. Regular Yoga Nidra sessions can help you feel more balanced and reduce anxiety or feelings of worry.

Self-care and ‘me’ time

Finding time for yourself can be hard with a newborn, but even calving out 5 minutes in your day for some ME time is essential for your well-being. Yoga Nidra offers a way to practice self-care in those moments you have. 

Here are some tips to get you started:

Find a comfortable space

Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. Make yourself comfortable with pillows, blankets, an eye mask and maybe a relaxing scented candle

Use guided recordings

Try our Yoga Nidra recordings to get you started. They are short and accessible. Get ready to feel blissful.

Set a regular time

Try to establish a routine. You may enjoy practising Yoga Nidra before bed to help you sleep better or during the day when your baby is having a nap. We often want to cram in loads of jobs while baby naps but why not give yourself some self-care time instead? This will have a bigger impact on your overall wellbeing and mood.

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