Yoga Nidra, often described as the practice of conscious sleep, has long been recognized for its positive impact on psychological well-being and health. Now, for the first time, Indian researchers have used functional MRI—a non-invasive brain imaging technique that monitors brain activity through changes in blood flow—to investigate the underlying mechanisms of this ancient practice. The study, conducted by researchers from IIT Delhi, AIIMS Delhi, and Mahajan Imaging, reveals a distinct neural mechanism in experienced meditators during Yoga Nidra that enables them to achieve a state of deep relaxation while remaining conscious.
The human brain has a network of interconnected regions known as the Default Mode Network (DMN), which becomes active when we are not focused on external stimuli. This “background mode” is at work when we daydream, think about ourselves, or let our minds wander. According to IIT Delhi researchers, the study found that the DMN in experienced meditators during Yoga Nidra showed a different pattern of connectivity compared to beginners, contributing to a state of deep relaxation without losing awareness.
As reported by timesofindia.indiatimes.com, while listening to guided Yoga Nidra instructions, both experienced practitioners and novices exhibited activation in brain regions associated with language processing and motor control, as expected. However, the study also observed significant activity in areas related to emotional processing and in the thalamus, which plays a crucial role in regulating sleep.
Professor Rahul Garg of IIT Delhi, co-principal investigator of the study, explained that according to yogic teachings, Yoga Nidra can help bring deeply ingrained impressions, or “samskaras,” from the subconscious to the surface, facilitating their release and promoting overall well-being. This could be one reason why the practice has shown effectiveness in reducing anxiety in various studies.
Dr. Harsh Mahajan, chairman of Mahajan Imaging & Labs, emphasized the significance of the findings: “This study is the first to use functional MRI to validate the positive effects of Yoga Nidra, an ancient yogic practice. It highlights a unique neural mechanism in experienced practitioners that allows them to achieve a state of being both restful and aware.”