In an ideal world, Yoga Nidra is best practiced lying down in savasana, the corpse posture. But some people are physically unable to lie down flat for health reasons, and some situations mean we have to be seated, but are still and have time on our hands – perfect for a nidra practice.
Examples of these opportunities - time spent commuting, time spent having chemo or other infusions, time spent nursing someone who is ill, time spent on journeys. With earbuds and mobiles, Yoga Nidra practice in transit is so simple.
Remember when practicing seated nidra the usual guidance applies – aim for the spine to be straight and aligned, shoulders down and open, head aligned, chin parallel with the floor, feet and knees hip width apart, feet parallel.
Whilst lying down is the optimal position, when you practice YN seated, it helps relaxation become further embedded, so whatever situation we face we can protect ourselves from anxiety, strengthen our relaxation response, and continue to lower our inherent stress levels.
"On this path no effort never goes to waste, and there is no failure. Even a little effort toward spiritual awareness will yield protection from the greatest fear.” Krishna, Bhagavad Gita 2:40, translated by Eknath Easwaran
Every nidra practice, seated or lying down, systematically reduces chronic stress and anxiety, bringing deep rest to our minds and bodies. So, this beautiful practice becomes portable and transferrable whenever necessary. As Jon Kabat-Zim says - “It is indeed a radical act of love just to sit down and be quiet for a time by yourself”