Sometimes I can’t decide which I love more – breath or nidra. For a recent assignment, I got to read two review papers (a study of studies) on the evidence base for yoga nidra as an intervention for psychological health. The results are clear that nidra significantly:
- Reduces anxiety and increased relaxation
- Reduces trauma symptoms such as self-blame or intrusive memories
- Reduces stress
- Improves sleep quality and sleep onset
- Decreases blood pressure and increases Heart Rate Variability (HRV), a measure of restedness in the nervous system
A regular stream of breath and nidra classes are coming up at The Studio! Join me soon, whether in person or online, for some deep, evidence-based stress reduction.
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Malviya, S., Saoji ,Apar Avinash and and Pravalika, B., 2025. Yoga nidra for mental health: A systematic review of current evidence. Journal of Spirituality in Mental Health [Online], 27(1), pp.70–96. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1080/19349637.2023.2290249 [Accessed 13 May 2025].
Musto, S. and Hazard Vallerand, A., 2023. Exploring the uses of yoga nidra: An integrative review. Journal of Nursing Scholarship: An Official Publication of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing [Online], 55(6), pp.1164–1178. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/jnu.12927.