Qualitative Impressions of a Yoga Nidra Practice for Insomnia: An Exploratory Mixed-Methods Design

Abstract

Introduction: Insomnia affects up to half of the U.S. population, and due to limitations of current treatments, there is a growing interest in mind-body practices to reduce insomnia. To understand how a guided meditation practice, Yoga Nidra, may affect relaxation and align with current descriptions of nonpharmaceutical practices that could improve sleep, qualitative and quantitative methods were used to explore participant experience of a single Yoga Nidra practice, administered in a group setting. Methods: Current insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index), sleep practices, and mood (positive and negative affect schedule [PANAS]) were measured at intake. After 30 min of Yoga Nidra practice, the PANAS was readministered. In a focus group that followed, participants discussed their experience before, during, and after the practice and the likelihood of repeating it. Six groups were conducted. All interested adults were welcome to join. Results: In the final sample of 33 individuals (79% female), 80% of participants reported insomnia at intake and 45% reported a regular mind-body practice, supporting the prevalence of insomnia in the society as well as the interest in mind-body practices. After the Yoga Nidra intervention, mean negative affect decreased 5.6 ± 4.5 points, a 31% decrease from baseline, and positive affect decreased 3.5 ± 9.7 points, a 13% decrease. Three major themes were identified from focus group discussions: response to the practice (relaxation, perceived sleep, and sense withdrawal); factors that affect engagement (delivery method and intrapersonal factors); and potential as a clinical intervention (for conditions including sleep, anxiety, and pain). Conclusion: Yoga Nidra appeared tolerable within the sample, and descriptions suggest it may be useful for enhancing relaxation, facilitating sleep, easing anxiety, and reducing pain. Results from this study will inform the design of future studies of Yoga Nidra for insomnia and related conditions.