What is Prana Nidra?
Prana Nidra is a simple and powerful kriya rejuvenation and meditation practice. All you have to do is sit or lie down and listen to the instructions. During Prana Nidra, you rejuvenate and recuperate as you relax completely. Relaxation is at a physical, mental, emotional and neural level. The practice leaves you feeling rejuvenated, recharged and fresh.
And, as you practice PranaNidra regularly, you will start exploring your inner Self – your habits and tendencies, with tools to work on yourself to unfold your full potential.
What is Prana Nidra?
Prana Nidra is a form of guided relaxing rejuvenation and healing practice also known as “pranic rebirth” or “effortless rejuvenation”.
Prana Nidra is a simple and powerful meditation practice. Like yoga nidra, one has to sit comfortably or lie down and listen and follow the instructions. The practice draws our attention inwards, and we learn to surf between the states of wakefulness and sleep, where our body finds its natural state of equilibrium (homeostasis) – the breath balances and becomes quiet, unconscious and conscious aspects of the mind reveal themselves, and we fall into an innate state of deep, blissful awareness. During Prana Nidra, one relaxes completely. Relaxation is at a physical, mental, and emotional level. The practice leaves you feeling recharged.
As we recharge here, we can turn our attention easily and effortlessly to the very nature of awareness and consciousness and how the energy seamlessly is exchanged at the more holistic way with the cosmic exchange. We start to experience the ‘deeper’ features of yogic teachings that previously we perhaps considered intangible, such as feeling our interconnected wholeness and becoming aware of our true, unified nature – expansive, inclusive, and deeply rejuvenatingl.
Prana Nidra takes us effortlessly into a state of harmonious, transformed being where we become one with the our greater reality. And, as one practices Prana Nidra regularly, one shall start exploring one’s inner Self – one’s habits and tendencies, with tools to work on oneself to unfold one’s greater potential.
From here, we can be healed, restored and awakened to our deepest, all-knowing, all-welcoming self. It’s a sublime practice, taught to a few committed practitioners, and results continue to prove its effectiveness.
Who is it for?
Absolutely anyone with conviction and commitment can practice Prana Nidra, but it has immense appeal for those who struggle to identify with ones full potential. It also has immense value for those suffering from low energy, fatigue, trauma, anxiety or depression (to any degree). It’s also perfect for those who have always been curious about the deep states of meditation they have perhaps read about or stumbled across themselves but have never been able to recreate.
This form of Prana Nidra that has a tradition behind it that proves its efficacy at easing the symptoms of the conditions mentioned above, and is proven to be an effective boost to well-being.
In my private sessions I see countless people who are often surprised at the power and efficacy of this practice. Prana Nidra has become the missing piece for me in my Prana therapy tool bag; paradoxically, because it doesn’t try to fix anything. Instead, through deep heartfelt listening and welcoming, so many problems of the body and mind find harmony and resolution. I delight in teaching this paradox; that what we can truly be with, we ultimately transcend. This is both the heart of Prana and the embodiment of enlightened living – to be with things as they are, and feel this deep surrender to ourselves and toward life.
This is both the heart of Prana And the embodiment of enlightened living – to be with things as they are, and feel this deep surrender to ourselves and toward life.
How do you practice Prana Nidra?
In short, you lie down or sit straight and have a rest! The teacher will guide you, usually for around 35-60 minutes. We start by setting an intention (why are we doing this) and enquiring into our deeper intentions for life (where are we going and are we on track?). Then, we spend time forming the foundations of an ‘inner resource’ – a playlist of feelings and associations that make you feel safe and well. By connecting with a multi-sensory reflection bought about through memory, imagery and a felt sense, we are given back our birthright of well-being, belonging, security and ease.
Once the foundations of this have been laid, and we have a basic sense of ‘ok-ness’, we can begin to gather concentration and sensory awareness by exploring the body and breath. In effect, you use your senses as a microscope, exploring, listening and welcoming every aspect of the body and breath. This practice leads the body and mind into a deep state of relaxation.
It is now in this state that various hits of emotions, thoughts and beliefs – often unexpected – start to emerge. Perhaps they are experiences or emotions that you’ve not had the chance to deal with, or perhaps you’ve found them too overwhelming and therefore chosen, on whatever level, to repress. With our body and mind rested ‘in neutral’ we are able to welcome and respond to these thoughts, feelings and beliefs in new ways. From this deep, underlying sense of ease we might effectively meet our uncomfortable memory or trauma and through a deep listening and welcoming, come to new understanding or resolution. We may use classical yogic techniques of reflecting on opposites, or feel our underlying true nature of open, spacious awareness, to help us trust and go deeper into our experience.
Once the mind and emotions have been truly seen, heard, welcomed and connected with, they too become increasingly subtle. This gives rise to the final phase of the practice: exploring consciousness. Do you know who you are? Are you aware of your true nature? Do you know what it is to be sentient? Prana Nidra enables us to dive in and recognize our Self (with a big S) as open, expansive, unbounded, unlimited awareness.
Having achieved this state one begins to connect with one’s pranic body and then sees oneself in the light of the cosmic prana as one is nurtured by it.
It’s time to dive in and recognize yourSelf (with a big S) as open, expansive, un-bounded and unlimited awareness. This is the ultimate liberation and the highest realisation we can come to.
Where does PranaNidra come from?
Prana Nidra has its roots in Tantra and Marma. Over centuries, people practiced these healings and expanded upon them – the great Rishis and the great warriors being its first proponents who spent a lot of time practicing to realise their full potential as well as master the nature around them. These teaching have been largely explore in Surya and Agni Tantra as well as Vajrayana Tantra.
This encompasses an incredible breadth of experience and practical guidance, all pointing us to a simple truth: at our essence we are the stillness of awareness and that this inner light, when explored, takes us into the macrocosm and the realization of our unity. The practice of Prana Nidra becomes an experiential map of the history of rejuvenation and encompasses all of these philosophies along its journey.
Prana Nidra in its current form was codified by Swami Satyananda Saraswati of the Bihar School of Yoga fame and, propagated and popularized by his chosen disciple Swami Niranjananand Saraswati.
When can I do Prana Nidra?
You can do PranaNidra whenever you feel you are willing to spend time in personal healing and rejuvenation throughout the day. As a meditation practice, it is best to do Prana Nidra every day at a fixed time. It can be done in the morning after Prana or any physical activity. Afternoon or evening after work is also suitable where PranaNidra becomes a recharge tool. PranaNidra must not be done for long period of time before sleep.
What are the benefits of PranaNidra?
Prana Nidra has been used for rejuvenation, stress management, depression and therapy, to enhance the recovery process in healing and, to harmonize the deeper unconscious and awaken inner potential, and as a meditative technique.
What are the different components of PranaNidra?
A typical Prana Nidra practice begins with orienting yourself to your environment and current state of body and mind. We then proceed to a body scan where we take our awareness through the different body parts and relax each one of them. We then focus our awareness on breathing for some time. This is followed by visualization and connecting with the cosmic prana and Sankalpa, your resolve. You are then gently brought back through the breath, body and space to the present.
Costs: The course for beginners is provided on Gift Exchange Model and is conducted online. The certifications are charged.
FAQ
What is PranaNidra
PranaNidra, often referred to as pranic rebirthing, is a state of conscious relaxation achieved through a guided meditation technique. It involves deep relaxation while maintaining awareness and is known for its rejuvenating effects on the body and mind.
How does PranaNidra differ from other Meditation Practices?
PranaNidra differs from traditional meditation as it involves systematic relaxation techniques that guide practitioners through different stages of consciousness, promoting profound relaxation while keeping the mind alert.
What are the main benefits of Practicing Prana Nidra?
Practicing PranaNidra offers a range of benefits, including stress reduction, improved sleep quality, enhanced mental clarity, a deep sense of calm relaxation, immense inner strength and heightened states of consciosuness. It is also known to alleviate anxiety and promote overall well-being.
Can anyone practice Prana Nidra regardless of experience level?
Yes, PranaNidra is accessible to individuals of all experience levels, including beginners. Its guided nature makes it suitable for those who may find traditional meditation challenging. Though having experience in Yoga Nidra shall make many of the steps easy to cover and one shall have lesser challenges and see rapid growth.
How long does a typical Prana Nidra session last?
A typical PranaNidra session can last anywhere from 35 minutes to an hour, with the duration depending on the specific guided meditation or the practitioner’s preference.
Is PranaNidra a form of hypnosis?
While PranaNidra induces a state of deep and extraordinary raising of energy levels, practitioners maintain a level of awareness. It is not considered hypnosis but rather a conscious state of rejuvenation.
Can PranaNidra help with insomnia?
Yes, PranaNidra is known to be effective in managing insomnia by promoting relaxation and creating an optimal environment for better sleep. Regular practice can contribute to improved sleep patterns.
Are there specific postures required for the practice of PranaNidra?
PranaNidra is typically practiced in a comfortable lying down position, such as Savasana (Corpse Pose). The focus is on relaxation, making it accessible for individuals with various physical abilities. Prana Nidra though can be practiced in a seated posture as well and is advised for those particularly who have a tendency to go to sleep during the practise.
How long must one practise Prana Nidra to experience its benefits?
Practicing PranaNidra a few times per week can bring about noticeable benefits. Consistency is key, and individuals can adjust the frequency based on personal preferences and schedules.
Can Prana Nidra be used as a tool for stress management?
Yes, Prana Nidra is considered an excellent tool for stress management. Its deep relaxation and energisation techniques help reduce stress hormones, calm the nervous system, and promote a sense of inner confidence peace.
Is PranaNidra suitable for people with anxiety disorders?
Yes, Prana Nidra can be beneficial for individuals with anxiety disorders. Its calming effects on the nervous system and focus on relaxation make it a valuable practice for managing anxiety.
Can Pregnant women practise Prananidra?
Yes, pregnant women can practice PranaNidra. It is a energising and rejuvenating practice that can promote feeling of fullness and self control during pregnancy, but it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new practice.
Can Prana Nidra improve concentration and focus?
Yes, regular practice of PranaNidra has been associated with improved concentration and focus. The practice enhances mindfulness, strong enthusiasm and mental clarity, contributing to better cognitive function.
Does Prana Nidra contribute to overall mental well being?
PranaNidra contributes to overall mental well-being by reducing stress, promoting relaxation, increasing energisation and fostering a deep sense of confidence and inner peace. Its holistic approach addresses both physical and mental aspects, enhancing the overall quality of life.
Is there any specific time of the day recommended for practicing Prana Nidra?
While Prana Nidra can be practiced at any time, it is often recommended to do so before night for best effects. However, individuals can choose a time that best fits their schedule and when they can fully engage in the practice. If done after sunset it may be done as a short practice.
Can Prana Nidra be used as a tool for pain management?
Yes, PranaNidra can be used as a complementary tool for pain management. The deep relaxation and energisation it induces may help alleviate discomfort and promote a more positive perception of pain.
How does Prana Nidra impact the mind body connection?
PranaNidra enhances the mind-body connection by promoting awareness of bodily sensations, emotions, and thoughts. This heightened awareness contributes to a greater sense of self-understanding and holistic well-being.
Can Prana Nidra be practiced in a group setting?
Yes, PranaNidra can be practiced in a group setting, making it a suitable activity for workshops, classes, or retreats. In fact a group setting shall enable overcoming of many minor hurdles otherwise. Practicing together can enhance the sense of shared rejuvenation and community.