Windrose Yoga

Cheryl LeClair E-RYT 200
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iRest
What is iRest?
  • iRest is based on the ancient practice of Yoga Nidra. iRest was developed by Dr. Richard Miller, Clinical Psychologist
  • iRest helps us observe and self-limiting, negative thoughts and self-limiting beliefs and calms the nervous system
  • Research has shown iRest effectively reduces Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and chemical dependency, as well as increases well-being
  • iRest is an adjunct treatment that is being integrated into veterans settings, homeless shelters, clinics, healing and meditation centers.  Healthcare professionals are integrating iRest to facilitate their own and their clients’ healing and wellbeing
  • The Department of Defense conducted as feasibility study in 2006 on using iRest to treat the symptoms of PTSD in soldiers returning from deployment.  Initial results were very positive, and now larger studies are being conducted
  • iRest is being used at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the VA Center in Washington D.C. and Veterans Centers throughout the U.S.  in the treatment of PTSD
  • iRest is being used by Camp Lejeune Naval Hospital’s mental health department’s “Back on Track” program for active duty military members with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • iRest is not affiliated with any religion

iRest accomplishes its goal through two basic steps:


The recognition of an intrinsic sense of peace during all circumstances, and

The release of negative body sensations, emotions, and beliefs and stress that give rise to self-destructive patterns.

    iRest is comprised of ten components:

    1. Development of Intention

    2. Body sensitivity training

    3. Breath and energy awareness

    4. Systematic neutralization of:

    5. Negative body sensations and stress

    6. Negative feelings & emotions and

    7. Negative beliefs, images and memories

    8. The experience of joy and well-being

    9. Freedom from the sense of separation  generated by the senses and mind

    10. The ability to experience peace amidst the changing circumstances of life
    My teacher, Richard Miller, often speaks of inviting our troublesome thoughts in for "tea and conversation in our guest house of awareness."  Rumi's poetry eloquently expresses this. 

    The Guest House

    This being human is a guest house.
    Every morning a new arrival.

    A joy, a depression, a meanness,
    some momentary awareness comes
    as an unexpected visitor.

    Welcome and entertain them all!
    Even if they're a crowd of sorrows,
    who violently sweep your house
    empty of its furniture,
    still, treat each guest honorably.
    He may be clearing you out
    for some new delight.

    The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
    meet them at the door laughing,
    and invite them in.

    Be grateful for whoever comes,
    because each has been sent
    as a guide from beyond.

     
    ~ Rumi ~
     
     
    (The Essential Rumi, versions by Coleman Barks)
    Copyright . Cheryl LeClair Windrose Yoga LLC. All rights reserved.