Yoga Nidras are practices with directed awareness that prevent the mind from wandering into day dreams. Instead of losing ourselves in thoughts, the point of meditation is to be an objective observer of the mind and body. Understanding, clarity, wisdom come from deep observation with directed, focused awareness.
The first four meditations are Yoga Nidras that have been developed in a particular order. Based on the structure of Satyananda Yoga Nidra, each practice has body awareness, body stillness, breath consciousness, and observation of the mental space. The structure goes through the steps of pratyahara (sense withdrawal), dharana (focus), and dhyana (focused concentration or meditation). The perspective each offers is different. Track 7 Yoga Nidra explores chakras and their seed sounds. Track 6 is a not Yoga Nidra. Focusing on a candle flame is calming. It also is an exercise in focus and concentration.
The goal of every practice is to observe and witness the mind and how the mind dictates life. We suggest that each one be practiced over several weeks. If you are new to meditation, it would be better to first practice the pranayamas, each one for one to four weeks, till some level of comfort with it has been reached. Go over the base positions in the Breathing section to determine what is the most comfortable position for you.
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Mahasri Yoga 