Honoring Tradition

I recently facilitated a 10-minute yoga nidra practice for a group of government employees. This ancient practice, often referred to as “yogic sleep,” involves a guided relaxation technique that can help reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost overall well-being. Nidra is a fantastic tool for calming the mind and body, even in short periods.

To prepare for my presentation, I compiled information regarding the origin of nidra. Despite my clear “yoga nidra” focus, a practice called non-sleep deep rest kept coming up thanks to Dr. Andrew Huberman. My brow raised.

What is non-sleep deep rest (NSDR) if not yoga nidra? Their processes are similar, and both induce a state of deeper relaxation. According to Huberman, “he chose the term and acronym because he believed it would be more palatable to people who are not comfortable with meditation or yoga.”

Ah. Huberman coined his “new” method or NSDR to give a nidra practice a digestible makeover.

Or consider Yin Yoga, a practice that some believe is the foundation of all yoga. Unlike flashier fast-paced, high-intensity styles that cause your Apple watch to send you a decibel warning, Yin Yoga emphasizes slow, deep stretches to target connective tissues. Yin yoga is frequently marketed with enticing names like “Deep Stretch for Fascial Vitality” or “A Meditative Dance With Your Connective Tissues.” While these titles may attract students, they often overshadow the practice's ancient roots and core principles.

When I think of burying the lineage of a practice, I drum my fingernails menacingly. I want to be open-hearted and channel my inner Shakespearean Juliet: “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Juliet is suggesting that a name is simply a label to distinguish one thing from another. Or, what matters is what something is, not what it's called.

But if this is a simple tomato/tomahto thing, why does it feel off-putting to see ancient practices get modern makeovers?

The way we label and market spiritual practices can significantly impact our understanding. Furthermore, stripping away their cultural and historical context can lead to misrepresentation and cultural appropriation. It's essential to approach these practices with respect, honoring their origins and ethical principles.

As the new year approaches, we'll undoubtedly be bombarded with wellness and spirituality promises in our feeds and inboxes. Let's explore how we can navigate this landscape with intention and discernment.

Situation 1:

A class or workshop chose vague, pseudo-spiritual language like “divine,” “channeled,” and “mindset.” It fails to provide a clear description, resulting in you being rightfully confused.

Solution:

Before committing, reach out to the facilitator and ask specific questions. Inquire about the practices that will be used and the overall structure of the event. A reputable facilitator should be open and transparent about their offerings.

Situation 2:

The class description is clear (like non-sleep deep rest), but you know the practice has been rebranded and perhaps appropriated. You've got a mini-ick.

Solution: 

Consider the target audience. If the class is intended for beginners, a more accessible title might be needed to avoid confusion. However, it's important to maintain the integrity of the practice by acknowledging its origins and traditions. A responsible facilitator will ensure that the class description and instruction honor the lineage and core principles of the practice.

Situation 3:

The class description blends various cultural practices without clear context or justification. You know what you're getting, but leery the facilitator went for a grab-bag approach.

Solution:

Research the facilitator's background and qualifications. While combining different practices can be beneficial, it's important to ensure that each practice is honored and respected. For example, a combination of Reiki and yoga nidra can be a powerful tool for relaxation and healing, but only when facilitated by someone with proper training in both disciplines.

The ultimate solution is to pause, breathe, and approach spiritual practices with respect and discernment. Select facilitators and offerings with a commitment to their full lineage.

By honoring their cultural origins and understanding their true nature, we can deepen our own experiences and contribute to a more conscious world. Let's make the energy for 2025 all about mindful discernment.

See you in January!