Falling Awake with Yoga Nidra: Integrative Tools for Trauma Healing and Neuroregulation

Course overview

This presentation explores the neuroscience and therapeutic potential of Yoga Nidra through Dr. Kathryn Shafers original qualitative research and clinical application. Falling Awake with Yoga Nidra reframes rest as an active process of awareness inviting clients to access healing states where the mind quiets, the body restores, and the nervous system reorganizes toward balance. Based on a qualitative study and four decades of integrative practice, Dr. Shafers YogaFun Nidra protocol demonstrates measurable improvements in calmness, clarity, and self awareness after even brief guided sessions. The practice gently moves through the bodys five energetic layers, activating parasympathetic regulation and increasing resilience to stress and trauma triggers. Attendees will learn the evidence-based mechanisms of Yoga Nidra, how to adapt the practice clinically for trauma and burnout recovery, and how to integrate guided rest into EMDR, Brainspotting, and other therapeutic modalities. Participants will leave with a practical framework for falling awake helping clients transform rest into a powerful gateway for healing, insight, and restoration.