Feeling a sense of panic or discomfort after coming out of yoga nidra is not uncommon and can have various underlying reasons. Yoga nidra is a powerful relaxation technique that brings your body and mind into a deeply relaxed state, often bordering between wakefulness and sleep. The transition from this deep relaxation to normal waking consciousness can sometimes trigger feelings of panic or anxiety. Here are a few possible explanations for this experience:
Rapid Shift in Consciousness: During yoga nidra, your brainwave patterns change, and you enter a state of deep relaxation. Coming out of this state can cause a rapid shift in consciousness, which might be disorienting and unsettling for some individuals.
Subconscious Unsettling: Yoga nidra can access the subconscious mind, and sometimes, unresolved emotions or anxieties may surface during the practice or as you emerge from it. These feelings can lead to a sense of panic or unease.
Physical Sensations: In some cases, the physical sensations experienced during yoga nidra, such as heaviness or numbness, can be disconcerting when you start to regain full awareness.
Adjustment to External Stimuli: After a deep relaxation practice like yoga nidra, your senses might become temporarily hypersensitive to external stimuli, which can create feelings of overwhelm.
Contrast with External Worries: The peacefulness experienced during yoga nidra can highlight the contrast with any stress or worries you may be facing in your everyday life, intensifying your emotions.
Past Trauma: For individuals with a history of trauma, deep relaxation practices like yoga nidra can sometimes bring up intense emotions and memories that could trigger panic.
If you experience panic or anxiety after yoga nidra, consider these suggestions to help mitigate the feelings:
Grounding Techniques: Practice grounding exercises after yoga nidra to help you reconnect with the present moment and your physical surroundings. Focus on your breath, touch objects around you, or engage in mindful movement.
Journaling: Write down your thoughts and emotions after the practice to process any feelings that might have surfaced.
Talk to a Teacher or Guide: If you attend a yoga class or session, discuss your experience with the teacher or guide, as they might offer insights and support.
Seek Professional Help: If your feelings of panic persist or significantly impact your well-being, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can provide personalized guidance and support.
Remember, experiences can vary from person to person, and it's okay to have different responses to yoga nidra or any other practice. Being gentle with yourself and allowing whatever comes up during the practice without judgment can help you navigate these feelings more effectively.