The Art of Yoga Nidra
Discover the profound practice of Yoga Nidra. In its simplest application, Yoga Nidra is a guided technique that invites you into deep relaxation. As your relationship with the practice deepens you may also come to recognize its immense capacity to nurture self-inquiry, healing, and connection to Self.
Yoga Nidra is often called "yogic sleep" but is far more than just rest—it can be explored as a practice, a goddess, and a state of consciousness. Yoga Nidra is an artful exploration of your inner landscape that nurtures greater awareness, presence, and transformation.
**Registration Closed ~ Stay Tuned for Future Offerings**
Module 1~ A Journey to Deep Rest and Inner Knowing
The Art of Yoga Nidra offers an immersive experience of theory and practice in a supportive community. Whether you seek personal rejuvenation or a greater connection to Self, this program is designed to meet you where you are.
Immersive Weekends
4 weekends
1x per month September - December
36 hours of in-person learning and practice in an intimate small group setting
Self Study
Integrate the weekend immersion experiences with curated exercises, readings and engagement in an online forum.
Community
Rest in community!
Build connections with like-minded individuals curious and passionate about weaving rest and Yoga Nidra into daily life.
Online Resources
12 month access to online resources
Yoga Nidra practice recordings + study materials + downloadable content to support your ongoing journey.
Choose Your Path
Module 1can be taken as a standalone program. For those interested in guiding yoga nidra, this module serves as one of the prerequisites for Module 2.
Details below.
A Unique Approach
Over the years, I have had the privilege to study with some truly amazing teachers who shared their wisdom and perspectives of yoga nidra inspired by their lineage or schools and unique experiences.
After many yoga trainings and currently working towards a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, what I can offer is that this immersion is unlike most training experiences and definitely contrasts the more masculine approach to learning within academia.
A gentle experiential approach to learning
The immersion has been created to offer a uniquely intimate environment that allows everyone to feel supported and encourages each person to contribute their wisdom as we nurture a relationship with yoga nidra -- the ultimate teacher.
Yoga nidra, among other things, can be explored as a practice, a goddess, and a state of consciousness; earnestly developing a relationship with yoga nidra will influence how you view the world you live in, your connection to Self and others and as such, can't be taught in a rushed or linear way.
This unique mix requires a unique approach that weaves together theory, practice, self-study and an environment that is responsive to individual and group needs.
More About The Journey
Module 2 ~ Deepen Your Practice - Share Your Light
This training goes beyond the basics, equipping you with the skills and confidence to lead Yoga Nidra sessions with authenticity and compassion. You’ll learn how to adapt sessions for diverse needs, and hold safe, inclusive space for your students.
Deepen Your Practice
Develop a nuanced appreciation for the practice as you explore yoga nidra from the perspective of student and guide.
Two immersive weekends
Spring 2026
Ongoing self study, mentorship and community.
The Artful Guide
Develop and refine your skills in an intimate environment that fosters personalized feedback, meaningful connections, and a safe space to experiment with your voice and guidance.
Hold Sacred Space
Cultivate the confidence, intuition, and presence needed to become an artful Yoga Nidra guide.
Prerequisites
Completion of Module 1: A Journey to Deep Rest and Inner Knowing
Completion of integration project
Minimum of a 200hr Yoga Teacher Training Program
About Your Guide
Natalie Workman (She/Her)
Natalie Workman, E-RYT 500 and YACEP is a seasoned yoga and meditation teacher passionate about sharing simple, powerful practices rooted in tradition yet relevant to modern-day living to support those on personal journeys of self-inquiry, healing, and evolution. Her passion for sharing yoga stems from a 20-year relationship with yoga that continues to support her healing and evolution and allows her to navigate the complex human experience with a little more grace and ease.
Since completing her first yoga teaching training in 2015, Natalie has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and expertise with over 800 hours of specialized training, including a Tantra-informed Master Teacher Training with Rod Stryker, Meditation Teacher Training with Tony Murdock, Yin Yoga Teacher Training with Bernie Clark, and Restorative Yoga Teacher Training with Andrea Peloso. More importantly, her commitment extends beyond formal training through ongoing dedicated practice and personal integration of the teachings.
Natalie, a certified ParaYoga Nidra Teacher and Level 1 iRest Yoga Nidra Instructor, has also steeped herself in many of the diverse approaches and lineages of yoga nidra through various trainings and independent study to nurture a rich knowledge and appreciation. Her extensive studies and personal practice infuse her teaching with wisdom and compassion. With a warm presence and deep understanding of yoga nidra and rest practices, she creates a nurturing space for students to explore and develop their relationship with yoga nidra.
Testimonials
A positive life changing experience for me! I have a deeper understanding of the science and spiritual aspects behind the practices. Natalie was so supportive through every step, sharing her deep understanding and teachings in a nourishing way. The sessions slowly build onto each other with the perfect thought provoking discussions, knowledge, journalling, self reflection, and practices. I am renewed and inspired in my life and am so happy I did this immersion.
Elena, 2021
What's Included
A year long journey to cultivate a deep relationship with rest practices and yoga nidra.
Module 1 ~ 50 hrs
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Intimate small group setting – program limited to 12 participants
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In-person sessions (4 weekends)
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Online group mentor sessions x2
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Access to online resources (12 months)
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4 month unlimited access to Wednesday Yoga Nidra live online sessions (September-December as scheduled) *12 sessions required for Deepen Your Practice Project.
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Ongoing mentorship & supportive community
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Guidance for self-study and integration activities
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Certificate upon completion of project
Deepen Your Practice Project (Student)
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Attendance and participation at live sessions
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Attend 12 additional practices
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Completion of all assigned integration activities & required readings
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28-day practice with practice journal + reflection paper
Requirements to be completed before starting module 2 OR within12 months of module 1 start date if not taking module 2 to receive certificate.
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Module 2 ~ 21 hrs
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Intimate small group setting – program limited to 12 participants
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In-person sessions (2 weekends)
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Online group mentor sessions x3
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Access to online resources (12 months)
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Unlimited access to Wednesday Yoga Nidra live online sessions (4 months as scheduled)
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Ongoing mentorship & supportive community
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Certificate upon successful completion of project
Share Your Light Project (Guide)
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Attendance and participation at live sessions
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40-day practice with practice journal + reflection paper
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Completion of all assigned integration activities & required readings
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Practice teaching (10 classes)
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Case Study + short summary
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Submit recorded practice
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Successful completion of project
Requirements to be completed within 12 months of module 2 start date to receive certificate.
Guest Instructors
These beautiful souls will be supporting our journey through presentations and/or practices.
Dr. Jackie Ang
MD, CCFP, GP, Psychotherapist, E-RYT® 200
Dr. Jackie Ang is a family doctor turned psychotherapist, wellness educator, yoga and meditation instructor (E-RYT200). Yoga Nidra entered her life in 2020 and has become her core daily practice and primary teacher.
With over 20 years of meditation study in Vajrayana buddhism, Vedanta and contemporary mindfulness, Jackie has been on a life-long pursuit to bridge the worlds of science and spirituality. She completed her medical degree at Queen’s University then certified in Spiritual Healing/Energy Medicine at the College of International Holistic Studies.
Jackie works as a trauma-informed group psychotherapist, offering mindfulness-based meditation programs for treatment of mental health and stress related disease. Her professional work gave her a firsthand look at the profound effects of personal and intergenerational trauma on physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. She has also witnessed the potential of yoga to support healing, if offered thoughtfully and skillfully. She shares her experience on the faculty of Esprit Yoga’s 200/300 hour Teacher Training program, leading modules on trauma-informed yoga, meditation and philosophy.
Jackie lives in Burlington and is an avid knitter and gardener. She is most likely to be found in the forest/by a waterfall with her husband and dog Lily or seeking out dolphins in Hawaii.
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Rachel Saxon
BSc Biochemistry, E-RYT® 500,YACEP®
Rachel’s curiosity about science and the body led her to earn a BSc in Biochemistry from Brock University. She discovered yoga in 2011, where the connection of body and movement reminded her of childhood gymnastics, and she fell in love with the practice immediately. Rachel quickly developed an appreciation for styles ranging from fast-paced vinyasa to calming restorative yoga.
Certified as a 200hr yoga teacher in 2013, Rachel expanded her knowledge through various trainings, focusing on slower practices like Restorative, Yin yoga, myofascial release, and breathwork.
Rachel earned her 500hr certification with Tiffany Cruikshank in 2021, becoming a Yoga Medicine® Therapeutic Specialist. This training deepened her understanding of anatomy, physiology, and the intersection of Eastern and Western medicine. She’s currently pursuing her 1000hr certification. Always a student, Rachel completed Jason Crandell’s 300hr online training in 2023, gaining further insights into anatomy, sequencing, philosophy, and introspective practices like meditation, pranayama, and yoga nidra. Studying with these influential teachers equipped Rachel with the tools to teach in a way that guides the body towards optimal health.
Rachel loves the outdoors. In her free time, you’ll find her by the water, hiking the escarpment, gardening, or deepening her yoga knowledge with yet another yoga training.
FAQ's
Is this program for me?
The Art of Yoga Nidra is thoughtfully designed for yoga and meditation teachers or curious students who feel called to: ~ Develop a meaningful relationship with rest practices. ~ Deepen their personal experience of Yoga Nidra. ~ Nurture their connection to Self. ~ (Re)connect with the part of themselves that is always at peace. ~ Rekindle or cultivate a sense of connection with the divine—whether that means nature, God, goddess, the universe, or however you perceive something greater than yourself. ~ Support themselves and their communities through rest and connection. ~ Add valuable tools to their self-care practices. Through guided practice, self-inquiry, rest, creative reflection, and time in a supportive community, this program offers a safe and nurturing space to surrender. Together, we will witness the beauty and transformative power of Yoga Nidra unfold.
Why is there a break between module 1 and 2?
The pause between Module 1 and Module 2 is an intentional aspect of the program's design. Yoga Nidra has profound effects that often continue to unfold and integrate well beyond the initial learning experience. This break allows participants the time and space to reflect, process, and embody the teachings at a deeper level. The pause also allows time for students to complete their "Deepen Your Practice" project. (Prerequisite for module 2) Module 2 is a continuation that acknowledges and supports this natural process of assimilation. It provides a space for students to reconnect with the community, receive additional guidance, and explore how their experiences have deepened or evolved. Module 2 is thoughtfully designed for those seeking to cultivate the skills, intuition, and confidence needed to create nurturing environments where students feel deeply supported and empowered. The program's structure is thoughtfully designed to support and sustain your exploration of Yoga Nidra, encouraging long-term evolution and deeper understanding.
Will I be ready to teach after completing module 2?
Yes. No. Maybe? I believe it’s not my place to tell you if you are ready to hold space for others. This immersion will equip you with essential tools to guide yourself and others with confidence, as well as provide ongoing mentorship to support your journey. Our time together will show you that leading a Yoga Nidra class is far more than simply reading a script in a soothing voice. It is about sharing an embodied experience that creates safe and sacred spaces for yourself and others to explore deep rest and the transformative practice of Yoga Nidra. To put it another way: imagine trying to describe your favorite food to someone without ever tasting it yourself—it would be impossible. Similarly, sharing the profound and subtle practices of Yoga Nidra authentically requires you to first embody them yourself. Take the time to savour the deliciousness of this journey, and trust that when the time is right, you will know.
Do I have to attend the group mentorship sessions?
For Module 1, group mentorship sessions are optional. However, I think you’ll find the sessions incredibly valuable! They provide an opportunity to connect with fellow participants, ask questions, and practice in a supportive environment. For Module 2, they are required to ensure you have the guidance and experience needed to deepen your practice and build confidence in sharing Yoga Nidra with others.
I can't attend Wednesday night sessions on Zoom, will I be able to complete the required additional practices?
Wednesday night sessions serve as a valuable weekly anchor to support you as you develop your relationship with rest and yoga nidra. Sometimes, our lives benefit when we make space for something new. And, other times, it isn't possible. If Wednesday night sessions currently don't fit your schedule, there are other options to accumulate the 12 practices -- some at an additional cost -- please contact me to discuss.
Thank you for visiting!
As a lifetime student, I understand the pull to embark on new learning experiences and deeply appreciate the time and resources each journey takes. If you missed registration for the current immersion feel free to check out weekly opportunities to practice with me online, studio sessions at Yogashala Waterdown or retreats.
If you have any questions, please contact me via natalie@natalieworkman.ca
I am always happy to chat and offer any insight that might help you decide what your next learning adventure will be!