What is iRest Yoga Nidra?

iRest® Yoga Nidra is an evidence-based ancient practice of deep relaxation and meditative inquiry that releases negative emotions and thought patterns, calms the nervous system and develops an inner sanctuary of well-being and equanimity to help with any circumstance you may encounter in your life.

At a typical iRest Yoga Nidra class, students will learn a little bit about the practice, and then lie down in a comfortable position with bolsters, blankets and an eye pillow (optional). The teacher will speak all the way through the 10-step meditation, going from an introduction and setting of intention, into a detailed body scan, and on to awareness of breath, emotions, thoughts, joy, and the true self. Throughout these stages, iRest Yoga Nidra participants will be awake and listening, but deeply relaxed. This guided meditation takes about 45 minutes.

Research has shown iRest Yoga Nidra can increase a sense of well-being, as well as reduce PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and chemical dependency. It has been integrated into veteran and first-responder settings, homeless shelters, healing and meditation centers, and clinics where counsellors and social workers are using iRest to facilitate their own and their clients’ healing and well-being.

This type of meditation class is for anyone, from people who have never done a meditation or yoga class before to experienced yogis and lifelong meditators.

iRest essentially teaches you how to live a contented life, free of conflict, anxiety, fear and suffering--by opening your mind and body to an inherent ground of health and wholeness.