Our Instructors

Meet Ellen Smith... one of Rensselaer Wellness Center's instructors. She is a certified Yoga Nidra Instructor.

One of the classes she teaches is an introduction to the Sleep Series. She offered this on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at the Rennselaer Wellness Center. The class has evolved from a protocol that she devised for herself so she could get a good night's sleep. According to her, "It's a game changer!"

An MRI she had showed severe stenosis in the lower back with a bulging disc, causing sciatica. After a debilitating fall on her tail bone years ago, getting restful sleep proved to be elusive.

Through a process of evolution, she devised a series of postures and a meditation that she does in bed directly before sleep. Now, she sleeps 7 to 8 hours a night... often falling asleep before the meditation is complete. Ellen wakes up when her body attempts to turn over, which is painful. However, since she is so relaxed, she goes back to sleep quickly. Ellen does not take prescription drugs or over-the-counter sleep aids... only one ibuprofen daily.

If you have an issue getting a good night's sleep, she encourages you to try her classes.

She welcomes you to join her for classes and always welcomes feedback.