iRest is a meditation practice based on the ancient tradition of Yoga Nidra and adapted to suit the conditions of modern life. It was developed by yogic scholar and clinical psychologist Dr. Richard Miller, who combined traditional yogic practice with Western psychology and neuroscience. It is simple to learn and easy to do, and it can be practiced by anyone, regardless of physical ability or experience with meditation.
In this interactive, experiential workshop, you will gain an understanding of the ten-step iRest meditation protocol, which invites you to welcome each thought, sensation, and emotion as a visitor and reframe your relationship to each. You will also discover core iRest principles/questions:
- What is my purpose?
- What is my essential nature?
Backed by extensive research, iRest helps us navigate life’s challenges and enhances our sense of well-being and peace. It helps us cope with daily stress, resolve trauma, decrease depression and anxiety, relieve chronic pain, improve sleep, and build resilience. When practiced regularly, it enables you to meet each moment of your life with unshakable peace and well-being, no matter how challenging or difficult your situation.
The workshop will include some journal prompts, time for questions, and a 35-minute meditation that can be experienced seated or lying down.
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A recording will be made available to all registrants for two weeks following the workshop.
Recommended props: A journal or notebook and writing instrument; yoga mat, blanket, and pillows for comfort.
Laurie Angress is a Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT, 2016). She completed her yoga therapy training through the Yoga Therapy RX program at Loyola Marymount University in August 2014, which included an internship at the Simms/Mann Venice Family Clinic working with patients experiencing chronic pain.
With a desire to understand widespread anxiety and trauma in society, Laurie completed a second yoga therapy course with Amy Wheeler’s Optimal State Yoga Therapy school specializing in Mental Health (2019). Laurie also completed the 60-hour online course Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy.
The latest addition to the wellness toolbox is breathwork. Laurie is a newly certified Conscious Connected Breathwork Facilitator through Seven Directions Breathwork (October 2025). In addition to offering one-on-one yoga therapy sessions, Laurie teaches mindfulness and trauma-sensitive iRest™ meditation.
Laurie believes that opening to the wealth of intelligence that lies within the body and the stillness of meditation can lead to profound healing, personal growth, and self compassion.