iRest® (integrative restoration) is a research-based secular application of an ancient mindfulness practice that combines deep relaxation and resiliency training with meditative inquiry to address such issues as depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, sleep disturbances, and well-being. The iRest protocol has been developed over the past forty years by Dr. Richard Miller, a clinical psychologist, author, researcher and yogic scholar. Currently, there are iRest programs in military hospitals, correctional facilities, hospices, clinics, schools, and organizations supporting well-being across the U.S.A. The application of iRest in Canada is growing.
BENEFITS OF iREST
iRest is a transformative practice that releases negative emotions and thought patterns, calms the nervous system, and develops a deep capacity to meet circumstances you may encounter in life.
Extensive research has shown that iRest effectively supports the healing process across a broad range of populations and reduces symptoms of:
| ¨ PTSD
¨ Depression ¨ Anxiety |
¨ Insomnia
¨ Chronic pain ¨ Chemical dependency |
People using iRest report:
| ¨ Decreased stress, anxiety, fear & depression
¨ Decreased insomnia and sleep disturbances ¨ Decreased perception of chronic & acute pain ¨ Improved interpersonal relations |
¨ Increased energy levels
¨ Increased sense of control in their lives ¨ Greater sense of peace and well-being ¨ Greater sense of safety and control. |
HOW IT WORKS
iRest is integrative, in that it heals the various unresolved issues, traumas, and wounds that are present in the body and mind. It is restorative in that it provides tools that support its practitioners in recognizing their underlying peace of mind that is always present amidst all changing circumstances of life.
iRest is taught as a guided meditation. Participants can sit or lie down during the practice. No special clothing or equipment is needed. It is comprised of the following stages:
- Development of intention
- Body sensitivity training
- Breath and energy awareness
- Systematic neutralization of:
- Negative body sensations and stress
- Negative feelings & emotions
- Negative beliefs, images and memories
- The experience of joy and well-being
- Freedom from the sense of separation generated by the senses and mind
- The ability to experience peace amidst the changing circumstances of life
WHAT SOME PRACTITIONERS HAVE SAID
I am currently the Clinical Director for an Intensive Outpatient Program that treats Wounded Warriors with the invisible wounds of traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress disorder after multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan over the last decade and more. The Warriors (in the iRest program) are able to regain their grounding and move forward in their recovery and reintegration into continued active duty service or return to the community. John Golden, Captain, US Public Health Service, Military Treatment Facility
iRest is one of the most effective and comprehensive programs that I’ve encountered for healing of trauma and enhancement of psychological well being. One great strength is that it is accessible to a wide range of populations, including veterans, homeless people, those who are seeking to enhance their personal and professional lives, and advanced practitioners who are dedicated to liberation. I can’t recommend it highly enough. Cassandra Vieten, PhD Psychologist, Mind-Body Medicine Researcher, and Executive Director of Research at the Institute of Noetic Sciences.
Instead of feeling like there is something wrong with us, iRest makes us feel like there is something right with us. Gilbert M., Iraq War Veteran
Meditation makes me realize that I have a peaceful place, a restful place inside me that I can come back to.
I integrate iRest into all of my services: coaching, yoga, workshops and retreats
For research studies and iRest practices, go to www.irest.us
6 MONTHS