
YOGA-NIDRĀ – Ascent into the Subconscious
A comprehensive guide to the method developed by Svāmī Satyānanda Sarasvatī
by Nadeshda Stürzebecher (Antarshuddhi)
After five years of intensive research, I am delighted to present the results in book form. Based on classical sources of Indian philosophy (Vedanta, Samkhya, Tantra) and embedded in the integral yoga system of Bihar Yoga, this book combines theory, practice and historical classification.
For all those who want to understand and apply Yoga Nidra not only as a relaxation technique, but also as a method for expanding consciousness.
In this groundbreaking book, Nadeshda Stürzebecher presents an in-depth exploration of the first known yoga nidra method, developed by Svami Satyananda Sarasvati in the 1960s.
Svami Satyananda Sarasvati (1923-2009) was a 20th century yogic and tantric master, spiritual teacher and founder of the Bihar School of Yoga. His unique, integral yoga system, rooted in the Indian traditions of Vedanta, Samkhya, Tantra, and Yoga, methodically addresses all aspects of being. The yoga nidra technique – a key element of that system – is accessible to all, regardless of background or prior yogic experience.
In Western thought, the subconscious has often been seen as a repository of repressed desires and primitive instincts, beyond the purview of awareness. Yoga nidra, also known as “yogic sleep” or “psychic sleep”, is a profound practice which instead guides the awareness towards ascent into the subconscious and unconscious, facilitating the purification of the impressions stored therein.
However, as yoga nidra subsequently gained popularity in the West, it became largely reduced to a relaxation or therapeutic tool, divorced from its original purpose – the conscious journey through the layers of the mind toward spiritual development.
This book seeks to restore yoga nidra to its authentic context, reconnecting it with the ancient yogic and tantric traditions upon whose teachings it is based.
Yoga-Nidrā: Ascent into the Subconscious is a must-read for yoga practitioners, scholars, spiritual seekers, and anyone looking to explore the depths of their own consciousness. Whether you are a dedicated yogī or new to this transformative practice, this book will guide you to a profound understanding of the true power of yoga nidra.
Academic consultation: Georgi Krastev; Illustrations: Drdha Vrata Gorrick
Publisher: Purple Cloud Institute

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