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Episode 29

29. What Is Yoga Nidra? Understanding Yogic Sleep, Benefits & How to Practice

In this informative episode of The Spiritual Sanctuary: Wisdom for the Divine Feminine, we explore Yoga Nidra, also known as “yogic sleep.” You’ll learn what Yoga Nidra is, how it works, what you need to begin practicing, and why this powerful relaxation technique supports deep healing, nervous system regulation, emotional balance, and restorative rest.

This episode is the perfect introduction before diving into the guided Yoga Nidra classes that will follow. Whether you're completely new to the practice or expanding your meditation toolkit, this overview gives you everything you need to get started.

This episode also answers questions such as:

• What is Yoga Nidra and why is it called “yogic sleep”?

• What do I need to practice Yoga Nidra at home?

• How does Yoga Nidra help with stress, anxiety, and trauma?

• Is Yoga Nidra effective for improving sleep or reducing overwhelm?

• How is Yoga Nidra different from regular meditation?

• What are the physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits of Yoga Nidra?

• Can beginners safely practice Yoga Nidra?

A grounding and educational episode to prepare you for the upcoming guided Yoga Nidra sessions.

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Spiritual Sanctuary: Wisdom for the Divine Feminine
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About your host

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Bertena Varney

Bertena is a spiritual teacher, priestess, and intuitive guide who blends ancient wisdom with grounded, modern insight. She is the creator and host of The Spiritual Sanctuary, a podcast devoted to the Wheel of the Year, Divine Feminine wisdom, goddess traditions, ritual, meditation, and soul-aligned living.

With decades of experience as a college educator and a deep background in spiritual studies, Bertena brings a rare combination of academic depth and embodied spiritual practice to her work. Her teachings weave together seasonal spirituality, priestess paths, somatic awareness, tarot and oracle wisdom, and contemplative ritual—always with an emphasis on empowerment, discernment, and personal sovereignty.

Bertena is the founder of the Ancient Arts of the Priestess Academy, where she offers self-paced courses, seasonal lessons, and immersive spiritual education rooted in the cycles of nature rather than hustle culture. Her work is especially supportive for women seeking a slower, more meaningful spiritual path—one grounded in trust, rest, and inner authority.

Through her podcast, courses, and writings, Bertena invites listeners into a sanctuary space where wisdom is remembered, not rushed, and where spiritual growth unfolds in its own time.

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