Meditation Classes
Mindful Growth specializes in providing Integrative Restoration (iRest®) meditation
iRest meditation is a modern-day secular adaptation of the ancient meditative practice of Yoga Nidra. It is a form of self-inquiry that research shows effectively reduces PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and chemical dependency; while increasing health, resiliency, and wellbeing. iRest Meditation provides us with guidelines for going beyond our self-limiting beliefs and conditioning. Its practice allows us to break free of restrictive patterns, and to live a contented life free of conflict, anxiety, fear, dissatisfaction, and suffering. iRest enables us to unravel the mysteries of life, and to answer such questions as: “Who am I?”, “Why am I?”, “What is all of this?” In its ultimate form, iRest reveals the secret of enlightenment so that we may recognize our Essential Nature as unconditioned pure Awareness.
The origins of iRest are deeply tied to the service and support of military service members and veterans. As early as 2006, the U.S. Department of Defense conducted research at Walter Reed Army Medical Center on the efficacy of iRest, an adapted form of Yoga Nidra developed by Richard Miller, PhD, to help service members returning from the Global War on Terror better manage symptoms of post-traumatic stress. Since this hallmark study, numerous service members, their families, and veterans have benefited from the practice of iRest. iRest Meditation has historically been endorsed by the U.S. Army Surgeon General and recognized by the Defense Centers of Excellence For Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury as a form of complementary and alternative medicine.
About iRest Meditation
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iRest focuses on physical, psychological and spiritual health, and the healing, resilience, and well-being of the whole person. It is a simple self-paced program delivered in either group or individual settings during which participants are empowered to regulate their own nervous system and maintain their own health. This method combines Eastern and Western practices into a practical and secular program for healing.
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Over 30 research studies have been completed utilizing iRest for healing post-traumatic stress, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and for enhancing resilience and well-being. iRest is also being studied as a non-pharmacological alternative to drugs that are used to treat PTSD, anxiety, and sleep-related issues. For more information on iRest meditation and research, click here.
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A quiet environment with dimmable lights or lights that can be shut off is recommended. Participants can sit, stand, lay down, or arrange themselves in any comfortable position. iRest does not require any special props, but some participants find it helpful to use pillows, blankets, yoga mats or eye masks to promote relaxation.
Co-Meditation Dyads
A dyad is a pair-based meditation with a very clear structure based on two simple roles: the facilitator asks a question, holds the space, and practices empathic listening; the practitioner inquires into the present moment and describes out loud their experience regarding their question. Meditating 1:1 with an experienced facilitator helps focus your awareness and delve into the parts of you wanting to be seen, felt and experienced. This is the inverse of many guided meditations and recorded sessions you may find elsewhere that can be directive or imposing.
With the help of its clear structure, the presence of a facilitator and the inquiry question, a dyad is an intentional space between two beings. To be received and understood by the other creates intimacy and trust that helps to open up and express our truth. It invites our most vulnerable and precious aspects to show up so that the intensity of our human experience can be expressed.
Dyads reveal an interconnectedness of being meeting being. I like to think of it as holding up a dusty mirror so the practitioner can see themselves. The presence of a facilitator helps to wipe away the dust to reveal a clearer reflection of all that is present in the moment finding peace and ease.
Through Dyads I’ve helped clients manage pain and stress, welcome in tranquility, tap into inner wisdom to find clarity, process unresolved issues, and carry calm in their daily lives. There’s something very special about connecting to yourself with the aid of another.
Check out our Google Reviews page to see some of the amazing results our clients have had after just one co-meditation dyad session.
Reviews and Reflections
After One Co-Meditation Session
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“I had the pleasure of immersing myself in the world of yoga with Kyle for several years, and more recently, I had the opportunity to engage in a virtual one-on-one meditation session with him. Despite my already high expectations, Kyle managed to transcend them effortlessly. His guidance was nothing short of exceptional, guiding me through a profound journey of self-reflection and clarity. I emerged from the session with a profound sense of renewal, ready to tackle life. I wholeheartedly endorse Kyle to anyone seeking a transformative experience. I can’t recommend him enough.”
Kevin S.
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“I can’t say enough good things about my meditation practice with Kyle, it is very welcoming and calming. Kyle’s guidance is incredible, it allowed me to see a different method than I am use to and improved my own meditation practice significantly by having a deeper understanding and ability to feel what is happening within me. My practice with Kyle changed my life positively and has helped me a better person!”
Jeff B.
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“Kyle has such a genuine and organic way of creating a safe space and being so present throughout his meditations. His thoughtfulness allowed me to feel into my emotions and physical body in a way that felt comfortable and not at all intimidating. He is a trustworthy and knowledgeable guide that I'm excited to meditate with again!”
Jamie M.
Traditional
Meditation Practices
In addition to iRest meditation, Mindful Growth also offers traditional approaches to mediation including guided meditations, trataka (candle gazing), pranayama (breathing exercises), loving kindness meditation, mala meditation, and other group and individual mindfulness practices. Contact us to find out what program is right for you.
In the end, we realize how simple life is when we accept this moment and our response to this moment, just as it is without pretending to be other than who we are. This is the grace in action and the culmination of iRest.
- Richard Miller, Founder of iRest