Monthly Mental Health Spotlight: Yoga Nidra, Ego Death, and Mental Health Recovery: Aaron Smith’s Journey
Monthly Mental Health Spotlight
Finding Home: Aaron’s Story
Every so often, I come across a story that reminds me why I do what I do. Aaron Smith’s journey is one of those stories. His path through questioning faith, exploring altered states, falling into addiction, and finding peace through yoga nidra is not just compelling; it’s a reminder that mental health recovery can take many forms. I’m honored to share his story here.
Summary
Aaron Smith’s mental health recovery journey began with a teenage mystical experience, took a detour into addiction, and ultimately found grounding in yoga nidra. His story is raw, inspiring, and full of insights for anyone seeking healing.
Key Insights
Aaron Smith overcame anxiety, depression, and addiction through yoga nidra, a meditative practice he describes as both instantly rewarding and deeply transformative. It became the key to his mental, emotional, and spiritual healing.
Aaron Smith’s Story
Early Life & First Spiritual Awakening
I was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and grew up in the 80s and 90s. My father was a preacher, so I was forced to attend church three times a week. Even as a child, I knew something didn’t feel right, but I never got answers to my questions.
“This was way before the Internet or ChatGPT, so I was lost, and so were my parents.”
In my late teens, I began experimenting with psychedelics. One night, while on a high dose of LSD, I experienced ego death, one of the most profound and mystical experiences of my life. I transformed from what I’d call a “normie, simpleton” into a seeker of truth.
I explored Zen and Taoism, practiced aikido, and began meditating. But I could never stick with the practice. This on-and-off cycle lasted for the next 20 years.
Descent Into Addiction & the Turning Point
In my early 20s, my life spiraled quickly due to a hardcore drug addiction. I was eventually evicted and nearly homeless, facing prison or death. Then, someone saved me; my future sister-in-law took me in.
“I’m sure she thought she was just doing me a favor, but it changed my life.”
While getting clean, I had a spiritual awakening that shifted my focus toward others. I considered becoming a firefighter or nurse, and while I didn’t pursue those careers, the desire to help never left me. My time “on the dark side” made me more compassionate and empathetic toward others’ suffering.
Discovering Yoga Nidra
It wasn’t until I discovered yoga nidra that everything changed. I hate to use buzzwords, but it was a total game-changer. It was instantly rewarding, fun, and easy to stick with.
“I didn’t have to be a victim of my mind.”
Within months, my anxiety went from an 11 down to a 1 or 2. I began shifting my focus from the ordinary to the mystical.
Yoga nidra felt psychedelic, but safe and gentle. It led me to what I call “the Source,” a space where all knots are untied and disparities melt away with ease.
“It’s the same invisible landscape where my teenage ego death unfolded. It’s Home.”
Aaron’s Insights on Mental Health
1. What inspired you to help others?
The compassion I developed after my addiction fuels my desire to help. Being saved by someone else’s kindness showed me the power of connection.
2. What’s one thing people should know about therapy?
Talking is good, but constantly retelling your trauma can re-traumatize you. Healing needs practices that help you let go, not just revisit pain.
“There must be some sort of meditative practice… some sort of way to learn to let go.”
3. How do you prioritize your own mental health?
I keep a clean diet, get sunshine and exercise, maintain regular sleep, and, most importantly, I practice yoga nidra.
4. What’s one misconception about mental health?
That seeking therapy means something is “wrong” with you or that you’ve failed.
“Be kind to yourself.”
Explore More
- How Do You Know You’re Healing? Signs You’re Getting Better — Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It
- Mental Health Maintenance: It's Not Just for the Hard Days
External Resource
- Yoga Nidra: A Meditative Practice for Deep Relaxation and Healing — Yoga Journal
- What is Yoga Nidra (YouTube)
- What Meditation Really Is ~ Sogyal Rinpoche (YouTube)
Reflections on Recovery
Aaron Smith’s journey proves that recovery isn’t just about surviving, it’s about finding a way Home to yourself. His path from ego death to yoga nidra shows that healing can be mystical, practical, and sustainable.
If you’re curious about somatic practices like yoga nidra, start small and stay open to where the journey might take you. Your mind, body, and spirit deserve that freedom.
About Aaron Smith
Aaron Smith is a mental health advocate, spiritual seeker, and practitioner of yoga nidra. Having overcome addiction and navigating ongoing anxiety and depression, he shares his insights on holistic healing, mindfulness, and the mind-body connection. Aaron’s journey emphasizes compassion, resilience, and the transformative power of inner exploration.
Thank you for stopping by! Until next time, remember that you are not alone in your feelings or experiences. I've got your back! For more blogs, click here.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. If you are struggling, seeking help from a licensed mental health professional who can offer personalized guidance and support is important.
Disclaimer for Monthly Mental Health Spotlight:
The guests featured in the Monthly Mental Health Spotlight on Darkness to Dialogue: Living Well with Mental Illness share their personal experiences and insights about mental health. Their stories are meant to inspire, raise awareness, and foster dialogue.
Please note that the views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or recommendations of Darkness to Dialogue. We encourage readers to seek professional guidance if they are struggling with mental health concerns. This platform is not a substitute for professional therapy or medical advice.
Thank you so much for providing this space to share my story. It was an honor! 💚
ReplyDeleteYou are more than welcome, Netert! You are always welcome back!
ReplyDeleteThank you Caralyn for allowing me to share my story.
ReplyDeleteYou are most welcome Keisha! Thank you so much for sharing your inspiring journey with everyone!
ReplyDelete