The Dark Moon Ceremony is where the magic happens. By honouring our need for deep rest, we recognise here at Universal Movement that the dark moon is one of the most important times of the lunar cycle. As the dark moon's energy and our personal energy levels are their lowest point, this is an opportunity to let go, surrender and reset, allowing us to unwind, relax and take some much need time out for ourselves. If we push ourselves day after day without giving in to rest during the waning and dark moon phase can lead to a continuous depletion of our physical and emotional reserves, culminating in exhaustion, particularly as the full moon approaches.

Take a pause and join us in honoring the significance of deep rest with this Yoga Nidra meditation led by Alexe, the Universal Movement founder and methodology creator. This ceremony is a unique opportunity for us to rest and replenish while engaging in practices of restorative yoga, Yoga Nidra meditation, and letting-go visualisation techniques, guiding you to release and embrace renewal.

What are the benefits of this Yoga Nidra meditation? 

Our relaxation and Yoga Nidra meditation offer a range of benefits for both the body and mind including:

🗝️ Stress Reduction: Yoga Nidra meditation induces a deep state of relaxation, activating the parasympathetic nervous system and counteracting the effects of stress. This can lead to a significant reduction in stress levels, helping individuals manage daily challenges more effectively.

🗝️ Anxiety Management: The practice of Yoga Nidra involves calming the mind and releasing tension from the body. This can be particularly beneficial for anyone dealing with anxiety, helping them cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquility.

🗝️ Improved Sleep Quality: Given its association with the yogic sleep state, Yoga Nidra can be a powerful tool for improving sleep quality. Regular practice may help individuals experiencing insomnia or sleep disturbances by promoting relaxation and creating optimal conditions for restful sleep.

🗝️ Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Yoga Nidra encourages self-awareness and mindfulness, providing individuals with the tools to observe and understand their emotions. This heightened awareness can contribute to improved emotional regulation and a more balanced emotional state.

🗝️ Reduced Symptoms of PTSD: Some studies suggest that Yoga Nidra may be beneficial for people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The practice's gentle approach and focus on relaxation may help alleviate symptoms such as hyperarousal, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts.

🗝️ Increased Mindfulness: The guided nature of Yoga Nidra directs attention to various aspects of the present moment, fostering mindfulness. Practitioners learn to stay present and observe thoughts and sensations without attachment, contributing to a more mindful and conscious way of living.

🗝️ Enhanced Concentration and Focus: Regular practice of Yoga Nidra can improve concentration and mental clarity. By promoting relaxation and reducing mental chatter, individuals may find it easier to focus on tasks and engage in activities with greater attention.

🗝️ Release of Tension and Trauma: Yoga Nidra practice involves a systematic release of tension from different parts of the body, which can help release physical and emotional tension stored in the muscles. This may be particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma or carry stress in their bodies.

✨ Cultivation of Positive States of Mind: Yoga Nidra often incorporates the setting of a sankalpa (intention), which can be a positive affirmation or goal. Regularly reinforcing this sankalpa during practice can contribute to the cultivation of positive states of mind and personal transformation.

✨ Overall Well-Being: By promoting relaxation, self-awareness, and a sense of inner peace, Yoga Nidra contributes to overall mental well-being. It offers individuals a valuable tool for self-care and stress management in the fast-paced demands of modern life.

While both Yoga Nidra and meditation share common ground, it's important to recognise that Yoga Nidra meditation is a specific form of guided meditation with a focus on deep relaxation and conscious exploration. Practitioners may choose the approach that resonates most with their preferences and goals, as both practices offer unique benefits for mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

What's involved at a dark moon Yoga Nidra online class?

Our Yoga Nidra meditation classes are unique to the moon sign of the dark moon.

At Universal Movement, our classes are thoughtfully curated to resonate with the current energy of the moment. Recognising that each moon sign is intricately connected to distinct internal emotions, we tailor and bespoke approach to offer a distinctive relaxation practice for each moon sign to energy as a collective.

This results in an aligned and meaningful experience that encompasses:

🌑 Welcome and Oracle card pull

🌑 The current moon sign insights and the link to body astrology, and associated charka and element.

🌑 Letting go practices - body scan

🌑 Energy work

🌑 Yoga Nidra

🌑 Restorative yoga

🌑 Awakening stretch

What do I need for this dark moon, Yoga Nidra meditation online class? 

🗝️ Quiet Space: Choose a quiet and comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. Ideally, the room should be dimly lit or with the option to darken it.

🗝️ Yoga Mat or Comfortable Surface: Lay down a yoga mat, blanket, or any comfortable surface to lie on. You want to be able to fully relax without any discomfort. You can also do this practice on your bed for the ultimate comfort.

🗝️ Pillow & Blankets: Have a blanket nearby to cover yourself. During a relaxation practice, body temperature can drop, so it's essential to stay warm. Place a pillow under your head and/or beneath your knees for added comfort. This can help alleviate any strain on your lower back.

🗝️ Eye Pillow or Cloth: If you find it helpful, you can use an eye pillow or a soft cloth to cover your eyes. This helps create a sense of darkness and enhances relaxation.

🗝️ Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing to allow for unrestricted movement and a sense of ease for this Yoga Nidraonline class. We invite you to join us in the ancient tradition of the dark moon practice, where women from diverse cultures, backgrounds and beliefs have gathered for thousands of years. During the dark and new moons, we come together for shared moments of reflection, surrender, renewal, and the beautiful cycle of release and rebirth. Note: these Yoga Nidra online classes are NOT recorded and are held live on Zoom. 

Your Nidra Nidra and meditation instructor: Alexe @lunarlexe

Want to know more about Yoga Nidra meditation and its benefits this Aries season? 

What's the link to Aries? 

In Body Astrology Aries is the ruler of the head and the brain. Yoga Nidra is often associated with the subconscious mind due to its unique ability to access and influence this deeper layer of consciousness, Yoga Nidra meditation practices are proven to be very positive for your mental and emotional health.

Here are some key aspects of the link between Yoga Nidra and mental health: