New iRest Yoga Nidra Class!
1st Mondays (Monthly) from 5:30-6:45pm*
iRest Yoga Nidra Workshop
Donation Based Tuition
What is iRest? iRest, or Integrative Restoration, is a non-secular practice based on the ancient teachings of yoga nidra (literally, the “yoga of sleep”) - coupled with the latest neuroscientific studies and advancements in the trauma field. iRest is “integrative” in that it heals various unresolved issues, traumas and wounds that are present in the body and mind. It is “restorative” in that it aids the body and mind to return to a natural state of functioning. This simple, yet extremely powerful practice is easy to learn and integrate into your everyday life for improved physical, mental and emotional health and interpersonal relationships.
How did iRest begin? iRest Yoga Nidra is a research-based practice of deep relaxation and meditation. It is a modern adaptation of the ancient meditation practice of Yoga Nidra. In 2006, Richar Miller, Ph.D., of the Integrative Restoration Institute (IRI), developed the protocol and led the initial iRest research at Walter Reed Army Hospital. It was officially endorsed and adopted by the US Army Surgeon General and Defense Centers of Excellence as a complementary and alternative medicine recommended for veterans returning from deployment. iRest Yoga Nidra has continued to grow in its reach, supporting a wide variety of populations at VA’s, schools, treatment centers, community programs, shelters, yoga studios and others across the globe.
How do you do it? iRest Yoga Nidra follows a 10-step protocol. It is a guided meditation practice, meaning the meditation is guided by the instructor’s voice during the course of the practice. iRest is a form of relaxed, meditative self-inquiry that clinical research shows increases health, resiliency and well-being, while reducing the suffering caused by issues such as:
- Acute Stress and/or Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Chronic pain
- Chemical dependency/Addiction
Do I have to be physically flexible? Yoga Nidra is suitable for people of any ability level, including those with physical limitations. This guided practice is generally practiced lying down or sitting comfortably in either group or individual sessions and requires no skill, flexibility or even prior experience with yoga or meditation practices.
What can I expect at a workshop? Each month, Aly will teach the fundamentals of the iRest Yoga Nidra protocol, with a specific theme discussed and practiced each month. The workshops are 75 minutes long and will include a combination of lecture, practice and sharing. Aly may also play crystal singing bowls or other healing instruments as appropriate for the class.
How do I learn more? Aly will offer a free introduction to iRest on Saturday, January 11, 2020 from 3-4pm. The iRest website is also a fabulous resource - www.irest.org
How much does it cost? This class is being offered on a sliding scale/donation basis, with a minimum suggested donation of $1 and maximum based on income and/or your own heart’s desired contribution. 30% of proceeds will support the Arkansas Craft School.
Aly is currently pursuing her certification as an iRest Yoga Nidra Teacher and is eager to bring this practice to our community. Aly has completed the following iRest trainings:
- Level One iRest Yoga Nidra Teacher Training with Richard Miller, PhD in Scotts Valley, California in June 2017
- iRest Yoga Nidra Meditation Immersion with Nole Giulini in Portland, Oregon in June 2018
- iRest Yoga Nidra Online Immersion Course with Richard Miller and Stephanie Lopez via Sounds True November & December 2019 (8 weeks).
In addition, Aly also trained with the Trauma-Informed Practices and Expressive Arts Therapy Institute under founder, Cathy Maldochi, PhD., completing both level one and level two trainings in Louisville, Kentucky in August and December, 2019.
Aly is also the program manager for the ACS and an active, founding member of Ozark Crystal Vibes, a locally-based, travelling sound healing group.
In the decade prior to her Mountain View life, Aly was a psychotherapist and clinical supervisior specializing in the prevention and treatment of child abuse and sexual trauma in Los Angeles, California. She moved to the Mountain View area on Thanksgiving, 2017 in order to be closer to family, nature and peace & quiet.
Questions? Alydear.acs@gmail.com
