NA'ALEH YOGA: Yoga Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake...

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Rav Benji Elson, whose work bridges Kabbalistic wisdom, nature-based spirituality, psychological healing, and personal transformation. Rav Benji is the author of Dance of the Omer, a book exploring the mystical journey of counting the Omer as a path to self-refinement. Our conversation explores how ancient Kabbalistic teachings, particularly the Sefirot, offer a powerful framework for healing, inner growth, and spiritual surrender—elements that are highly relevant to our upcoming series of Yoga Nidra practices themed on the Kabbalistic Sefirot. We discuss the intersection of Jewish mysticism, embodied meditation, and traditional psychology as transformative tools for deep healing and personal growth.

Rav Benji Elson's bio:

Rav Benji Elson, LMSW is a passionate instructor of embodied Jewish practice, a psychotherapist, an author, a musician, a Jewish environmental educator, and a transformative experience facilitator who has been privileged to share his impactful self-transformation and Jewish psychology teachings globally, including in cities across the U.S., Israel, the UK, Canada, Mexico, Turkey, Finland, Zambia, South Africa, and India.​

Benji's acclaimed book and course, Dance of the Omer, integrates Jewish psychology, kabbalah, chassidut, embodied practices, meditation, state-of-the-art therapeutic modalities, and nature connection, offering participants a unique path to personal transformation. He is currently writing a second self-transformation guidebook on Elul and Tishrei (the High Holidays). ​

As a psychotherapist, Benji works with individuals, couples, and families, utilizing a diverse array of cutting-edge therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, KAP, NLP, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, Regressions, and more.​

Rabbi Benji is also the co-founder and director of Sod Siach, an innovative EcoTorah Discovery Program that combines weekly text-study classes, hands-on workshops, and experiential field trips to promote sustainable Jewish living through Torah & the Land.

Previously, Benji served as Educational Director and Lead Transformational Facilitator of Shebet Haaretz, leading transformational Jewish jungle expeditions to reconnect participants with themselves, spirituality, Judaism, and the world.

On a more personal note, Benji’s colorful life experiences include living in two veggie-oil-fueled mobile homes, shepherding goats in the Jerusalem hills, meditating in Indian ashrams, living & working on Jewish farms around the globe, and volunteering in remote African villages.

Here is where to find Rav Benji Elson:

THE DANCE OF THE OMER COURSE | Elson Psychotherapy

[email protected]

Subscribe to Na'aleh Yoga Podcast for more transformative journeys and feel free to share this podcast with a friend. Take a moment to review and share your thoughts—I always appreciate your feedback! 

Feel free to reach out! 

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

Therapy Practice: Mental Fitness Therapy

Email: [email protected] 

 May you be peaceful and safe! 

NA'ALEH YOGA: Yoga Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake...

In this jam-packed enlightening episode, Ruthie welcomes Sulappagari Suman, founder of Aadyantha Academy, an internationally recognized yoga teacher and therapist from India, to explore the profound depths of yoga. Together, they unravel yoga not only as a spiritual practice but also as a precise science for emotional healing, physical wellbeing, and expanded consciousness. Suman shares his personal journey into yoga, the science behind practices, the significance of Yoga Nidra, and the power of intuition training. This conversation bridges ancient wisdom with modern science, offering practical insights and inspiration for listeners of all backgrounds and cultures.

Suman's Bio:

Sulappagari Suman is the founder of Aadhyantha Yoga Studio and an internationally recognized Yoga Trainer & Therapist with over six years of expertise in Yoga Therapy, Marma Chikitsa, Pranayama, and Ayurveda. Dedicated to promoting holistic well-being through traditional yogic practices, he has successfully conducted Yoga Teacher Training (TTC), retreats, and wellness programs for students, professionals, and NGOs. Suman has been a speaker at the International Yoga Conference in Kolampur, Malaysia and has earned multiple accolades, including the Yoga Rathna Award from the Netaji Charitable Trust and participation in a Guinness World Record group performance featuring advanced asanas such as Dhanurasana, Chakrasana, Halasana, Virabhadrasana, and Ustrasana in collaboration with Akshar Yoga, Bangalore.

Holding advanced certifications such as Science of Yoga Therapy (Certified Level 3), Certified Yoga Trainer (Ministry of AYUSH), RYT 500 Hours Yoga Instructor (Bodshpere Yoga Alliance), and Certified Yoga Nidra & Pranayama Instructor, Suman also specializes in Marma Chikitsa, Nadi Pariksha, and Ayurveda fundamentals. His extensive teaching experience includes leading TTC training for 30+ students, conducting yoga volunteer courses for over 100 students, and working with schools, colleges, and NGOs in Bangalore to promote yoga education. His expertise spans traditional and therapeutic yoga, meditation techniques, energy healing, deep relaxation practices, and conducting retreats and workshops. Passionate about blending ancient wisdom with modern wellness approaches, Suman continues to inspire and guide individuals on their journey toward holistic health and self-discovery.

Episode Summary:

Suman explains Patanjali’s eightfold path and its relevance to daily life, emotional health, and spiritual growth.

A thoughtful dialogue on yoga’s universal nature beyond religion and cultural misconceptions.

How modern research aligns with ancient teachings, covering chakras, breathwork, and physiological evidence.

Clarifying misconceptions about chakras and the science behind energetic centers in the body.

Discussion on yoga's practical techniques for stress, sleep, anxiety, and emotional balance.

Suman shares the origins, science, and immense healing potential of Yoga Nidra.

How Suman helps children and adults develop super-sensory skills like blindfolded reading and focus enhancement.

Suman guides listeners in a grounding breath practice accessible to anyone, anytime.

Suman talks about his daily yoga routine, pranayama schedules, and energy management.

Learn how to reach Suman for training in Yoga Nidra, intuition, telekinesis, and therapeutic yoga.

A reminder that yoga is for everyone: to be happy, healthy, and filled with love.

Here is where to find Sulappagari Suman:

📧 [email protected] 

🌐Aadhyanthaacademy.com

Subscribe to Na'aleh Yoga Podcast for more transformative journeys and feel free to share this podcast with a friend. Take a moment to review and share your thoughts—I always appreciate your feedback! 

Feel free to reach out! 

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

Therapy Practice: Mental Fitness Therapy

Email: [email protected] 

 May you be peaceful and safe! 

NA'ALEH YOGA: Yoga Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest 

By Ruthie Ayzenberg

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake

This relaxing Yoga Nidra episode is created for children to practice mindfulness in a fun, creative, relaxing way. Yoga Nidra can help kids with sleep, stress reduction, ADHD, mood, anxiety, self-esteem, and more. It helps restore every system in the body and relax the mind. 

What to expect: 

Background music from Pixabay: Ambient Relax Music by Black Wilson

Subscribe to Na’aleh Yoga for more meditative Yoga Nidra journeys and transformative experiences. If you like this podcast, please share it with your friends or leave a comment on YouTube or the platform of your choice.

Feel free to reach out to me through the links below. I'd love to connect with you so don't be shy! 

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

YouTube Channel: @naalehyoga

Email: [email protected] 

 May you be peaceful and safe! 

DISCLAIMER: This practice is NOT a medical treatment and NOT a replacement for medical treatment. Although this is a very safe, non-invasive meditative practice, this podcast does not take responsibility for any undesired experiences. This is a holistic psychospiritual practice that can be a beneficial adjunct to other treatment methods. 

NA'ALEH YOGA: Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest+

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake...

In this short guided meditation, you are invited to explore the sacred Hebrew letters as an embodied experience. In Jewish tradition, these letters are considered the building blocks of creation, each carrying deep spiritual significance. More than just symbols, they resonate with different aspects of the body, offering a unique pathway to balance, awareness, and connection.

This meditation is designed for anyone seeking a deeper connection to Jewish spiritual traditions, the body’s wisdom, and the power of sound and intention. It can be done anytime--first thing to start the morning, after a yoga practice, to reset during the day, or before going to sleep at night. 

Please note that this meditation is not sequenced as a Yoga Nidra practice, although it does focus on the element of the body scan and relaxation. 

Background Music from Pixabay: A Meditation Flying in a Dream by Ashot Danielyan

Subscribe to Na’aleh Yoga for more meditative Yoga Nidra journeys and transformative experiences. If you like this podcast, please share it with your friends or leave a comment on YouTube or the platform of your choice.

Feel free to reach out to me through the links below. I'd love to connect with you so don't be shy! 

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

YouTube Channel: @naalehyoga

Email: [email protected] 

 May you be peaceful and safe! 

DISCLAIMER: This practice is NOT a medical treatment and NOT a replacement for medical treatment. Although this is a very safe, non-invasive meditative practice, this podcast does not take responsibility for any undesired experiences. This is a holistic psychospiritual practice that can be a beneficial adjunct to other treatment methods. 

NA'ALEH YOGA: Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest+

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake...

This ancestral healing Yoga Nidra practice is created in the spirit of the month of Shevat on the Jewish calendar. This is a time for hidden growth and drawing strength from roots beneath the surface, as the trees prepare to bloom in the spring. Designed for emotional healing and spiritual connection, this deep trauma-informed Yoga Nidra journey guides you to explore your ancestral roots, heal generational wounds, and restore balance within. In this practice, you’ll connect with the wisdom and energy of your ancestors, while inviting healing and nourishment to flow through your body and soul.

Settle in comfortably with a blanket or pillow and prepare to dive deep into somatic experiences that bring clarity, peace, and healing.

Episode Summary:

Here’s what you can expect:

Preparation: Begin by settling into a relaxed, comfortable position. Make sure you have any props you need to feel cozy and supported, such as a blanket or pillow.

Intention Setting: Set a healing intention for this practice. Consider what you’d like to release or invite into your life and create a heartfelt "I am..." statement that resonates with your soul.

Rotation of Consciousness: A body scan, tuning into the physical sensations that arise.

Exploring Polarities: You'll explore the contrasting polarities and notice how these experiences affect your body.

Visualization: Connect with your ancestral lineage through somatic guidance.

Return to Your Intention: Reconnect with the intention you set at the beginning of the practice. 

Externalization: Gently return to your waking state, bringing the healing energies of the practice with you. 

Music credits:

Intro & ending song: Return Again from Soul Daughter Neshama Carlebach, lyrics & melody written by Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l

Background Music from Music of Wisdom: Deep into Nature by Narek Mirzaei 

A BIG THANK YOU to radiantly soulful Neshama Carlebach for her generosity to include this rendition of her singing parts of her father's beautiful song on the podcast. To listen to the whole song, go to HERE

And a BIG THANK YOU to talented Narek Mirzaei for creating music specifically for meditation backgrounds and generously sharing it.

Subscribe to Na’aleh Yoga for more transformative Yoga Nidra journeys and healing practices. If you enjoy this episode, please share it with others or leave a comment on YouTube or your preferred platform.

Feel free to reach out! I’d love to connect with you:

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

May you find peace and healing on your journey.

DISCLAIMER: This practice is not intended to replace medical treatment. While Yoga Nidra is a safe, non-invasive meditative practice, it is recommended as a complementary practice to other treatment methods. Always consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

NA'ALEH YOGA: Yoga Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest+

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake...

In this episode, we learn from the inspiring Evalee Gertz—Hatha yoga teacher, professional dancer, artist, entrepreneur, sleep mask designer, and founder of Sia Silk. Evalee shares her journey of transformation through yoga, creativity, and travel, and her passion for helping people achieve better rest and wellness through sleep optimization.

Evalee's Bio:

Evalee Gertz is an artist, performer, and wellness advocate whose rich and diverse background has shaped her approach to health and self-care. A lifelong painter who attended art school, Evalee continues to create, currently working on a large-scale series she plans to exhibit. Her creativity also led her to the stage, where she built a career as a dancer and performer in the film and music industries, even producing and starring in her own cabaret show after moving to Los Angeles at just 17.

Evalee’s journey into health and wellness began as she sought ways to sustain her energy and appearance in such a competitive industry. This passion evolved into a 15-year career as a yoga instructor, teaching around the globe and inspiring others to prioritize self-care. Her extensive world travels and volunteer work further deepened her understanding of holistic well-being and creative expression.

In 2022, Evalee combined her passions to launch SIA Silk, a brand that blends luxury, wellness, and artistry to promote better sleep and healthier living with their unique luxury silk sleep masks and other sleep aids. With her unique perspective as an artist, performer, and wellness expert, Evalee continues to empower others to embrace health, creativity, and balance in their lives.

Summary:

Here is where to find Evalee Gertz:

Sia Silk Website: www.siasilk.com

Social Media:

Instagram: @siasilk

Facebook: @siasilk

TikTok: @siasilk

YouTube: Sia Silk

Subscribe to Na'aleh Yoga Podcast for more transformative journeys and feel free to share this podcast with a friend. Take a moment to review and share your thoughts—I always appreciate your feedback! 

Feel free to reach out! 

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

Therapy Practice: Mental Fitness Therapy

Email: [email protected] 

 May you be peaceful and safe! 

NA'ALEH YOGA: Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest+

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake...

This is a traditional Yoga Nidra practice is created to honor your inner experience as you journey through the 5 sheaths of consciousness.  Designed for those who have some prior experience with yoga nidra, this intermediate/advanced session focuses on minimal verbal cues, allowing for a deep and personal exploration of consciousness. In this practice, there is less talking and more silence to support your internal focus with as minimal external input as possible.  For the same reason, there is no background music--this practice is voice only. 

Episode Summary:

Here’s what you can expect:

Preparation: Begin by settling into a comfortable position with your spine in alignment. 

Intention Setting: You will be prompted to set an intention (Sankalpa/kavanah) for this practice. Choose a meaningful, positive "I am..." statement that resonates with your heart and soul. 

Rotation of Consciousness: Body scan to rotate your consciousness into a state of deep relaxation.

Return to Your Intention: Reconnect with the intention you set earlier. Let it resonate deeply

Externalization: Gently transition back to your ordinary waking state, integrating this practice. Reconnect with your surroundings and return back to the waking state. 

Subscribe to Na’aleh Yoga for more meditative Yoga Nidra journeys and transformative experiences. If you like this podcast, please share it with your friends or leave a comment on YouTube or the platform of your choice.

Feel free to reach out to me through the links below. I'd love to connect with you so don't be shy! 

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

YouTube Channel: @naalehyoga

Email: [email protected] 

 May you be peaceful and safe! 

DISCLAIMER: This practice is NOT a medical treatment and NOT a replacement for medical treatment. Although this is a very safe, non-invasive meditative practice, this podcast does not take responsibility for any undesired experiences. This is a holistic psychospiritual practice that can be a beneficial adjunct to other treatment methods. 

NA'ALEH YOGA: Yoga Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest+

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake...

When is silence hurtful? When is it helpful? How do you know the difference? In this episode, join Ruthie Ayzenberg in a meaningful conversation with the delightful Andrea Longini, communications professional and M.A. in Rhetoric, as they explore the transformative power of silence, from the ways in which silence harms to the ways in which it can heal. Hear personal stories, recommended therapeutic modalities, wisdom from the ancients and a demo you can participate in. 

Andrea's Bio:

Andrea Longini has studied and worked in the communications space for over 15 years. A former instructor and syllabus developer of the “interpretation and argument” course at Carnegie Mellon University, she completed a master’s degree in rhetoric there in 2012. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in linguistics. Andrea has served in communications management roles at nonprofits for over 10 years, and in that time has notched well over 10 million individual email deliveries to a large audience on a range of mission-driven topics. She currently runs a communications consulting business as well as running a Substack blog on the side. Find her at longuistics.com. 

Summary:

Here is where to find Andrea Longini:

longuistics.com

Credits: Graphic by Andrea Longini & Ned Uber

Subscribe to Na'aleh Yoga Podcast for more transformative journeys and feel free to share this podcast with a friend. Take a moment to review and share your thoughts—I always appreciate your feedback! 

Feel free to reach out! 

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

Therapy Practice: Mental Fitness Therapy

Email: [email protected] 

 May you be peaceful and safe! 

NA'ALEH YOGA: Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest+

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake...

Sometimes you might not have the luxury of a whole hour to practice Yoga Nidra...Sometimes not even 10 minutes....

Remember that any amount of Yoga Nidra time is better than zero. And when it comes to Yoga Nidra, a little bit can go a long way.

This super short practice is created for those extra busy days, stressful moments, or times when you have only a few minutes to reset your nervous system.   With calming breathwork, a mindful body scan, and a quiet moment to reset, you are invited to take just 5 minutes to let go of stress and plant a heartfelt intention.  🌿

Episode Summary:

Here’s what you can expect:

Preparation: Begin by settling into a comfortable position. Make sure you have all the props you need, such as a pillow and blanket, to feel cozy and warm.

Body Scan: Body scan to relax your consciousness into a state of deep relaxation and generate warmth. 

Externalization: Gently transition back to your ordinary waking state.  

Background Music from Pixabay:  A Meditation Flying in the Dream by Ashot Danielyan

Subscribe to Na’aleh Yoga for more meditative Yoga Nidra journeys and transformative experiences. If you like this podcast, please share it with your friends or leave a comment on YouTube or the platform of your choice.

Feel free to reach out to me through the links below. I'd love to connect with you so don't be shy! 

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

YouTube Channel: @naalehyoga

Email: [email protected] 

 May you be peaceful and safe! 

DISCLAIMER: This practice is NOT a medical treatment and NOT a replacement for medical treatment. Although this is a very safe, non-invasive meditative practice, this podcast does not take responsibility for any undesired experiences. This is a holistic psychospiritual practice that can be a beneficial adjunct to other treatment methods. 

NA'ALEH YOGA: Nidra Journeys for Deep Rest+

Close Your Eyes and Stay Awake...

Whether you're seeking physical or emotional warmth, you are invited to go on a soothing Yoga Nidra journey for deep rest and warmth, creating a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation of the body, mind, and soul.

Prepare yourself with comfort items like a pillow or blanket as you are guided through the layers of awareness to honor your inner wisdom and cultivate a sense of peace. 

Episode Summary:

Here’s what you can expect:

Preparation: Begin by settling into a comfortable position. Make sure you have all the props you need, such as a pillow and blanket, to feel cozy and warm.

Intention Setting: You will be guided to set an intention (Sankalpa/kavanah) for this practice. Choose a meaningful, positive "I am..." statement that resonates with your heart and soul. 

Rotation of Consciousness: Body scan + breath practice to rotate your consciousness into a state of deep relaxation and generate warmth. 

Return to Your Intention: Reconnect with the intention you set earlier. Let it resonate deeply

Externalization: Gently transition back to your ordinary waking state, integrating this practice. Reconnect with your surroundings and return back to the waking state. 

Background Music from Pixabay:  Meditation17 Featherfall by TwinFish

Subscribe to Na’aleh Yoga for more meditative Yoga Nidra journeys and transformative experiences. If you like this podcast, please share it with your friends or leave a comment on YouTube or the platform of your choice.

Feel free to reach out to me through the links below. I'd love to connect with you so don't be shy! 

Biosite: https://bio.site/ruthieayzenberg

YouTube Channel: @naalehyoga

Email: [email protected] 

 May you be peaceful and safe! 

DISCLAIMER: This practice is NOT a medical treatment and NOT a replacement for medical treatment. Although this is a very safe, non-invasive meditative practice, this podcast does not take responsibility for any undesired experiences. This is a holistic psychospiritual practice that can be a beneficial adjunct to other treatment methods.