iRest - Integrative Restoration Meditation

A Research-Informed Path to Deep Rest and Emotional Resilience

Enroll Today - $29

What is iRest?

A course informed by emerging research to help you navigate life’s challenges with ease and equanimity.

Integrative Restoration, or iRest™, is a modern adaptation of Yoga Nidra (“yogic sleep”). It is a guided practice that leads the mind and body into a state of consciousness between waking and sleeping, where your body reaches a level of complete relaxation while your mind remains aware and receptive.

This course is designed to support anyone who wants to learn how to reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase their overall quality of life through the direct experience of inner peace.

Originally developed for an IONS research project and previously offered exclusively to our Conscious Aging Facilitators, this powerful meditation program is now available to the world at large.

Is this course for me?

Short answer: Yes.

While the research that evaluated this course focused on older adults (aged 55+), the benefits of iRest are universal. Our original study targeted symptoms of depression and stress in later life, and you will hear the instructors occasionally refer to “older adults” in the videos.

However, tools for emotional regulation, deep relaxation, and mindfulness are effective for adults of all ages. Whether you are a student, a working professional, or a retiree, these techniques are designed to help you build a resilient “inner resource” you can call upon at any time.

With the iRest training program,
you will learn to:

Practice Yoga Nidra

Master the art of the body scan to release deep-seated physical tension.

Regulate Emotions

Learn the hallmark iRest skill of being comfortable with the full range of human emotions in the present moment.

Reconcile Opposites

Navigate conflicting thoughts and feelings to find a place of balance and equilibrium.

Nurture Joy

Build the capacity to recall positive experiences and feelings at will, even during times of high stress.

Course Format

The iRest training program consists of four modules designed to be completed once per week, allowing you to integrate the practices into your daily life.

Your enrollment includes:

  • Four Video Modules: Watch as our expert instructors walk you through the science and practice of iRest.
  • Two Guided Meditations: Professional recordings you can download and use for continued daily guidance.
  • Course Workbook: A digital workbook to help you reflect on your experience and track your progress.

Each module takes approximately one hour. You will have lifetime access to the recordings, allowing you to return to the practice whenever you need a “restoration” session.

Meet Your Instructors

Noelle Poncelet, PhDDr. Poncelet is a clinical psychologist, certified iRest instructor, and shamanic practitioner. She has served as adjunct clinical faculty at UCSF and Stanford University and specializes in bridging psychology and spirituality to treat trauma and addiction.

Dr. Sapiro is a clinical psychologist, meditation teacher, and Fellow at the Institute of Noetic Sciences. An ordained Zen Buddhist monk, he teaches internationally on the art and science of transformation and expanded human capacities.

Grounded in Science

At IONS, we lead with evidence. iRest™ was developed by Dr. Richard Miller, a clinical psychologist and yogic scholar. This course was created by IONS as part of the research protocol that evaluated iRest™ for older adults with mood symptoms.

iRest™ has been the subject of multiple peer-reviewed studies led by IONS Director of Research, Helané Wahbeh. Our research found that participants experienced significant improvements in sleep quality and a reduction in symptoms of depression.

View the Research:

Testimonials

Practicing iRest with Michael Sapiro, one of the instructors, I reached a level of relaxation where I was aware of his voice, yet afterward remembered nothing. It felt like being suspended between sleep and wakefulness. Deep relaxation. I have practiced other forms of yoga nidra before, from which it is derived, but iRest felt more powerful for me.
Arnaud Delorme, PhD

Begin Your Restoration Journey Today!

ENROLL NOW – $29

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