NA'ALEH YOGA: Yoga Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest 

By Ruthie Ayzenberg

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake

This practice is a bit different from the other ones, as we take a detour from the traditional body scan and instead travel around a circuit of 12 meridian channels using breath and mindful focus.

According to Chinese medicine, the meridians are pathways through which energy (Chi) flows.  In Judaism, the word for life is Chai, which refers to the vital life force in all living beings. In yoga, these pathways are called nadis through which the life force Prana flows. Perhaps, Chi, Chai, and Prana all refer to the same basic life force.

Each meridian has multiple acupuncture points along its path and is associated with specific organs.  When energy flows easily through the meridians, we can feel healthy, energized, and balanced. However, when there are obstructions or blockages, we might not feel so great. 

By following the meridian pathways within the yoga nidra framework, you can observe on a subtle level how your energy is circulating and allow rebalancing to happen organically where needed.