Yoga Nidra for Better Sleep (And Why It Works)

If You're Tired of Being Tired, Read This

You're exhausted. You know you need sleep. But when you lie down, your mind won't shut off. You've tried melatonin. You've tried sleep meditations from apps. You've read all the sleep hygiene advice. Some of it helps a little. None of it fixes the core problem.

The core problem? Your nervous system is stuck in overdrive. This is where Yoga Nidra comes in.

What Yoga Nidra Actually Is

Yoga Nidra translates to "yogic sleep." But you're not actually sleeping. You're in a state between waking and sleeping where your body gets to experience deep rest while your mind stays gently aware.

During a Yoga Nidra session, you lie down in a comfortable position (usually supported by blankets and bolsters), and a teacher guides you through a systematic relaxation practice. You're not doing anything. You're not trying to meditate. You're just listening and allowing your body to rest. It sounds almost too simple. But the effects are profound.

The Science Behind Why It Works

Here's what's happening in your brain and body during Yoga Nidra:

Your Brainwaves Shift

Yoga Nidra guides you into theta brainwave states, the same state you enter just before falling asleep. This is where your body can deeply repair and restore.

Your Stress Response Turns Off

The practice activates your parasympathetic nervous system (your rest and digest mode) and deactivates your sympathetic nervous system (your fight or flight mode). This is the opposite of what happens when you're lying in bed worrying.

You Release Held Tension

The body scan element of Yoga Nidra helps you identify and release tension you didn't even know you were holding. That tension is often what's keeping you awake.

Your Sleep Quality Improves Over Time

Regular Yoga Nidra practice actually trains your nervous system to access rest more easily. You're building the skill of letting go, which translates directly to better sleep at night.

What to Expect in a Yoga Nidra Class

At Palestra, our Yoga Nidra classes are designed for maximum comfort and deep rest. You'll arrive and set up your space with as many blankets, bolsters, and props as you need to be completely comfortable. The lights are dim. The room is quiet and warm.

The teacher will guide you through the practice, which usually lasts 30-45 minutes. All you have to do is listen and let yourself rest.

Some people fall asleep during Yoga Nidra. That's okay. Your body clearly needs it. But the goal is to stay in that space just before sleep, where the deep restoration happens. Afterward, most people feel like they just woke up from the best nap of their life, even if they didn't actually sleep.

Who Yoga Nidra Is For

•     People who struggle with insomnia or poor sleep quality

•     Anyone dealing with chronic stress or anxiety

•     People who feel exhausted but can't turn off their mind

•     Anyone recovering from burnout

•     People who want to experience deep rest without having to "do" anything

Making Yoga Nidra Part of Your Sleep Routine

The benefits of Yoga Nidra compound over time. One session will help. Regular practice transforms your relationship with rest. We offer Yoga Nidra classes throughout the month at Palestra. We also pair it with restorative yoga for an even deeper experience.



Ready to actually rest? Check our schedule for upcoming Yoga Nidra classes and give your body the deep rest it's been asking for.