Yoga Nidra Sessions Doset, Devon and Somerset

Yoga Nidra is a transformative practice supported by modern science, offering profound benefits for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It helps reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels, improves sleep quality for more restorative rest, and enhances emotional regulation and self-awareness. Backed by research from sources like WebMD, the Sleep Foundation, and Healthline, Yoga Nidra combines ancient wisdom with evidence-based methods to promote holistic healing and balance.

No, Yoga Nidra is not strenuous at all. Unlike other forms of yoga that involve physical postures, Yoga Nidra is a completely passive practice. Participants usually lie down in a comfortable position, such as on a yoga mat or even in bed, and are guided through a meditative process using visualisation and relaxation techniques. This makes it accessible to people of all fitness levels, including those with limited mobility or physical restrictions. Its focus on deep relaxation and mental stillness ensures that anyone can participate without effort, making it a gentle yet highly effective practice for overall well-being.

Absolutely, Yoga Nidra is highly inclusive and accessible, making it suitable for individuals with disabilities. Since it is a completely passive practice, there is no physical strain involved. Participants can adapt their position to suit their needs, whether lying down on a yoga mat, reclining in a chair, or even sitting upright if that is more comfortable. The focus is entirely on mental relaxation and guided meditation, meaning that physical ability is not a barrier to participation. Yoga Nidra can be tailored to individual requirements, ensuring that everyone can benefit from its calming and restorative effects.

That’s correct—Yoga Nidra does not involve traditional yoga poses. It is a guided meditation practice typically performed in a comfortable, resting position, such as lying on your back in Savasana (corpse pose). However, this position isn’t a “pose” in the active sense; it’s simply a way to support deep relaxation. If lying down isn’t comfortable, you can practice Yoga Nidra in any position that suits you, such as sitting in a chair or reclining with support. The focus is entirely on entering a meditative state through guidance, not on physical movement or postures.

It’s understandable to think that Yoga Nidra might involve stretching, balancing, or poses, especially since it’s often associated with yoga. However, Yoga Nidra is actually quite different from traditional forms of yoga that focus on physical postures (asanas). While yoga asanas involve movement, stretching, and balance, Yoga Nidra is a form of deep relaxation and meditation, where you lie down comfortably and are guided through various stages of relaxation, visualisation, and body awareness. The primary aim of Yoga Nidra is to reach a state of conscious relaxation, not to engage in physical stretching or balancing poses. It’s a deeply restorative practice that helps you unwind mentally and physically, without requiring any physical exertion or specific poses.

While Yoga Nidra is often classified as part of the broader yoga tradition, it differs significantly from the physical practices commonly associated with yoga, such as asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises). However, Yoga Nidra is still considered a form of yoga because it originates from yogic principles and philosophies, particularly in its focus on mindfulness, consciousness, and deep relaxation. It is often referred to as “yogic sleep” because it guides practitioners into a state of profound relaxation and awareness, similar to a meditative state.
In essence, Yoga Nidra is more about mental and emotional relaxation than physical movement, but it still aligns with the broader aims of yoga: promoting holistic health, self-awareness, and inner peace. So, while it may not involve physical postures, it is still very much rooted in the yogic tradition.

In my Yoga Nidra sessions, here’s what you can expect:
Comfortable Setting: We’ll begin by ensuring you’re in a comfortable position, usually lying on your back on a yoga mat or soft surface. I’ll provide props like blankets, cushions, or an eye mask to help you relax fully and feel supported throughout the session.
Guided Relaxation: I will guide you through a relaxation process, helping you release any physical tension in your body. We’ll focus on your breath, allowing you to let go of stress and settle into a deep state of relaxation.
Body Scan: I will lead you through a body scan, where you’ll bring awareness to each part of your body, starting from your toes and moving up to your head. This helps deepen your relaxation and encourages any remaining tension to melt away.
Visualisation and Mental Journey: During the session, I may guide you through visualisation exercises. These might involve imagining peaceful scenes or working with specific symbols, colours, or emotions to foster mental clarity and emotional healing.
Setting an Intention (Sankalpa): I’ll invite you to set an intention or affirmation, known as a Sankalpa. This personal intention will help you focus your mind and can facilitate positive changes or healing in your life.
Deep Relaxation State: As we progress, you’ll enter a state of deep relaxation, where you remain conscious but deeply at ease. This state is similar to the border between wakefulness and sleep, leaving you feeling calm, restored, and centred.
Closing: I will guide you back into full awareness towards the end of the session, gently returning you to the present moment. You’ll leave the session feeling rejuvenated, mentally clear, and with a deep sense of peace.
Overall, my goal is to help you achieve profound relaxation, reduce stress, and promote healing through Yoga Nidra. You’ll leave the session feeling deeply relaxed, grounded, and refreshed.

Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose, comfortable clothing that allows you to relax fully. There’s no need for special attire, but you’ll want to feel at ease throughout the session.
Bring a Yoga Mat, Pillow, and Blanket: Since you’ll be lying down during the session, bring a yoga mat for added comfort and support. You may also want to bring a pillow to support your head, and a blanket to keep warm. If you like additional support, placing cushions under your knees can enhance comfort.
Set an Intention (Optional): Before the session, you might like to reflect on an intention (Sankalpa) you want to set for the practice. This could be a personal affirmation, goal, or something you wish to focus on emotionally or spiritually.
Water Bottle for Afterwards: Remember to bring a water bottle with you to hydrate after the session. Yoga Nidra is deeply restorative, and drinking water afterward can help you feel grounded and refreshed.
Let Go of Distractions: Before we begin, turn off your phone or other devices to eliminate distractions. This allows you to immerse yourself fully in the practice and experience its calming benefits.

Yes, Yoga Nidra is generally very safe for most people. It is a gentle, restorative practice that focuses on relaxation and mental clarity rather than physical exertion, which makes it accessible to individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Because it doesn’t involve any strenuous physical movement or poses, it is particularly suitable for people with mobility challenges, stress, anxiety, or those recovering from illness or injury.
However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, particularly in the later stages, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before practicing Yoga Nidra, especially if you’re not lying flat on your back.
Mental Health: For individuals with certain mental health conditions, such as severe trauma or psychosis, it’s advisable to work with a trauma qualified teacher who can guide you safely through the practice. Some individuals may find that deep relaxation techniques bring up emotional memories or discomfort.
Sleep Disorders: If you have a sleep disorder or chronic insomnia, Yoga Nidra can be incredibly helpful, but it’s important to follow a regular practice and speak to your healthcare provider for additional guidance.
Overall, Yoga Nidra is a safe and effective practice for relaxation and well-being, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns or health conditions.

Yes, Yoga Nidra can be helpful for managing and alleviating certain physical issues, although it is not a substitute for medical treatment. While the practice primarily focuses on mental and emotional relaxation, it can have positive effects on the body as well. Here’s how it can be beneficial:
Stress-Related Physical Tension: Yoga Nidra helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting deep relaxation and reducing the levels of stress hormones like cortisol. This can help release tension in the muscles and improve overall physical relaxation, which can be especially helpful for those suffering from chronic muscle tightness or stress-related pain.
Improved Sleep: Since Yoga Nidra induces a deeply restful state, it can help improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing insomnia. A good night’s sleep is essential for the body’s natural healing processes and can benefit those with physical issues related to sleep deprivation, such as fatigue or weakened immune function.
Chronic Pain Relief: The deep relaxation achieved in Yoga Nidra can help manage chronic pain by calming the nervous system and promoting pain relief through mental focus and relaxation techniques. While it may not cure chronic pain, it can offer some relief, reduce pain sensitivity, and improve coping mechanisms.
Improved Circulation and Relaxation: The relaxation induced during Yoga Nidra helps improve blood circulation and reduces the physical stress on the body. This can be especially helpful for conditions like high blood pressure or poor circulation, as the practice encourages a state of deep calm and restful balance.
Rehabilitation and Recovery: Yoga Nidra can support the recovery process for individuals who are healing from physical injuries or surgery. By promoting deep relaxation and encouraging the body’s natural restorative processes, it can help reduce recovery time and improve overall well-being.
While Yoga Nidra is not a replacement for medical treatment, it is a complementary practice that can enhance physical health and support the healing process. If you have specific physical concerns or conditions, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating Yoga Nidra into your routine.

The number of Yoga Nidra sessions you’ll need depends on your individual goals, the issues you’re addressing, and your personal progress. Unlike more intensive physical practices, Yoga Nidra is generally a gentle and restorative experience that you can benefit from even after just one session. However, for more lasting results, regular practice is recommended. Here’s a general guideline:
For Stress Relief and Relaxation: If your goal is simply to reduce stress or find relaxation, even one session can be quite effective. However, for ongoing stress management, I would suggest one treament a month.
For Sleep Improvement: If you’re using Yoga Nidra to improve sleep quality, many people find noticeable benefits after just a few sessions. I would suggest two treatments per month until your sleep quality has improved.
For Emotional Healing or Chronic Conditions: If you’re addressing deeper emotional issues or managing chronic pain, you may find that the benefits accumulate over several weeks or months of consistent practice. In this case, attending sessions regularly, such twice a month would be beneficial.
For Rehabilitation or Recovery: If you’re recovering from an injury or surgery, Yoga Nidra can support your healing process. You might benefit from multiple sessions over several weeks, especially as part of a holistic approach that includes other treatments or therapies.
Ultimately, the frequency and duration of your practice can vary based on how your body and mind respond. Some people may feel the benefits after a few sessions, while others may find it more effective with a regular practice over time. It’s important to listen to your body and practice as often as feels right for you.

In my personal Yoga Nidra sessions, which last for 90 minutes, you can expect a tailored and deeply restorative experience. Here’s how the session is structured:
Introduction and Settling In (10-15 minutes)
We’ll begin with a brief introduction, where I’ll take the time to understand your goals for the session. You can share any specific areas of tension, emotional focus, or intentions you may have. During this time, I’ll ensure you’re comfortable by helping you set up with props such as pillows, blankets, or an eye mask, ensuring you’re relaxed and ready for the practice.
Yoga Nidra Session (60 minutes)
Once you’re settled, the main part of the session begins. I’ll guide you through a full body scan, helping you relax deeply and release any tension. We will move into visualisation or mental journeying, depending on your needs, allowing you to connect with your inner self, calm the mind, and promote emotional or spiritual healing. You’ll also be invited to set a personal intention (Sankalpa) if you choose to. This phase is where the deep relaxation occurs, allowing your body and mind to rest, restore, and rejuvenate.
Debrief and Integration (10-15 minutes)
At the end of the session, we’ll have a brief debrief. You’ll have the opportunity to share your experience, and I’ll guide you in reflecting on the practice and any insights you may have received. This integration period helps to ensure that the benefits of the practice settle deeply, leaving you grounded and refreshed. We’ll discuss any follow-up practices that could support your continued journey.

In addition to offering home visits across Dorset, Devon, and Somerset, I am also able to offer Yoga Nidra sessions in Chard and Axminster at fully equipped treatment rooms. This flexibility allows you to choose a location that best suits your needs—whether that’s the comfort of your own home or one of the serene, dedicated therapy rooms in these beautiful towns.
Room Access in Chard and Axminster
Chard: I am able to offer Yoga Nidra sessions at a peaceful treatment room located within 9 Springs Natural Health Centre, a tranquil space in the heart of Chard, Somerset.
Axminster: I also have access to a calm and welcoming therapy room in Axminster, perfect for those based in East Devon or nearby areas.
Home Visit Pricing
For home visits, I travel to your location and bring everything necessary for a full Yoga Nidra session. The cost for home visits is:
Travel Fee: 45p per mile each way (calculated from my location to your home postcode)

Whether you choose the convenience of a home visit or a session in one of the therapy rooms, my goal is to ensure that your Yoga Nidra experience is comfortable, healing, and tailored to your needs.
To book a home visit or room appointment simply contact me with your postcode and preferred location, and I will provide a personalised quote and schedule your session.