Yoga Nidra reveals that your body, mind, and the entire universe lives within you, in your awareness. Richard Miller
Last night six people came into stillness, in community. Covered with blankets, supported by bolsters, they opened to the experiment of divine rest. Derived from ancient traditions, Yoga Nidra is a journey of self inquiry, a guided meditation leading to the discovery of our True Nature which is always present.
Early evening, dusk light, toward the end of day. Since March most every Tuesday I am honored to offer the practice of iRest Yoga Nidra at a local yoga studio, 15 minutes from my house.
I began teaching Yoga Nidra in a church basement 9 years ago after discovering the benefits of practicing Yoga Nidra for a year, once a month, during a very difficult time. I studied independently until the realization that I needed a deeper understanding, experience and community. I researched the different schools of Yoga Nidra and decided on Integrative Restoration Institute, iRest, located in San Rafael, California. I began a two year, rigorous course of study that included tests, reflections on assigned readings, week-long training sessions, recording of offerings to groups and individuals, an in-depth inquiry into The Path of Meditation, sessions with a mentor, explorations into Self, and several silent retreats. An immersion to becoming a Certified iRest Yoga Nidra Teacher. It was not easy.
The poet, Rilke in his Letters To a Young Poet, states In this there is no measuring of time, a year doesn’t matter, and ten years are nothing. I feel this way about writing poetry and the practice and teaching of Yoga Nidra. It is a process of unknowing and mystery.
Opening the senses alone is an act of bravery. It takes courage to be in stillness and welcome in everything as messenger. Honor each person who arrives at the given time, settles into the space, a momentary sanctuary. No wrong way. Not trying to change anything. The body breathing itself, just this. An act of love.