BEGINNERS YOGA - WEEK FOUR  - MENTAL

Most of us today suffer from sensory overload, the result of constant bombardment from television, radio, computers, newspapers, magazines, social media – it only takes a short period of phone scrolling to tire and overload the mind . Our commercial society functions by stimulating our interest through the senses. We are constantly confronted with bright colours, loud noises, sweet tastes, dramatic sensations.

Untrained senses have their own Will. They tell the mind what to do. If we don’t discipline them they dominate and disturb us with their endless demands.

According to Ayurveda sensory impressions are the main food for the mind and just as junk food  makes the  body toxic, junk impressions make the mind toxic. Perhaps the simplest way to detox the mind is to spend time away from all sensory input.

In yogic philosophy pratyahara is withdrawal of the senses  and as we withdraw our senses from the stumli of the outside world we can draw attention inwards harnessing our energy nourishing our mind and body.

If our minds are like the surface of the pond then our thoughts are like waves on the surface. As soon as one wave dies countless other physical, emotional and intellectual stimuli give rise to another.  “Just as a tortoise withdraws its limbs, so, when a man withdraws his senses from the sense objects his wisdom become steady. It is not easy to dial down the demands of day to day living to turn the mind wherever you want requires a trained mind. One that holds steady during the storms  of life and the  onslaught of desires and provocations. Controlling or reducing these disturbances is yoga. When the mind is clear life is simple and flows freely.

LETS BEGIN OUR PRACTICE WITH ALTERNATE NOSTRIL BREATHING FINDING STILLNESS IN THE MIND AND DRAWING OUR SENSES INWARDS

YOGA NIDRA

SLEEP WITH TRACE AWARENESS

Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep as it is commonly known, is an immensely powerful guided visualisation meditation technique. Whilst lying comfortably on the ground supported by cushions and blanket (nest) you are guided through the pancha maya koshas (5 layers of self) leaving you with a sense of wholeness, clarity and deep rest.

Before we begin prepare the body for yoga nidra.

Build a nest with blankets and pillows supporting your body in such a way that you will be comfortable without movement for 45 minutes. Consider supporting under your knees with rolled up towels or cushions. If placing a cushion under the head ensure the neck doesn’t or wont feel strained over a long period of time. Perhaps a blanket under the body supporting the lower back and reducing any cold sensation rising up from the floor. A blanket over you for comfort and a light eye covering to block out any light.

Take your time to get comfortable before we begin Yoga Nidra sleep with trace awareness.