Welcome to week three of four in this Yoga Nidra series. You can jump in at any time, but know that these videos build upon one another and go deeper each week. This week focuses on getting the level of cognition and working with beliefs.

Yoga Nidrā can literally be translated as 'yogic sleep' or 'the sleep of the yogi.' It is the gradual implementation of certain practice that lead to a deep resting state. Yoga Nidrā has been proven to aid in sleep disturbances, PTSD, and many other psycho-somatic dis-eases.

Why is sleep important? Sleep accelerates wound healing, supports the immune system, and supports proper brain function. Good sleep improves our memory, helps us to manage pain, and lowers stress.

"Swami Rama showcased his mastery of yoga nidra at the Menninger Clinic by deliberately controlling his bodily processes under laboratory conditions. In this study, he produced delta brain waves (the brain waves associated with deep sleep) for 25 minutes while appearing to be asleep, but he could remember almost everything said around him during that time. He also was able to purposefully stop his pulse for seventeen seconds."

Yoga Nidrā can be practiced by anyone and it cannot be done incorrectly. Find yourself on some comfortable clothing and expect to be lying down (with props, if you'd like) for about 40 minutes. You'll be led through various practices and asked to stay awake and present. While residing in the present moment, you'll be invited to allow your inner wisdom to come forward.