Martha D'Abruzzo, LCSW, Yoga Instructor & Level...

Introduction: I offer guidance in the healing practice of Yoga both through Yoga Movement as well as a form of resting guided meditation called iRest Yoga Nidra, founded by Richard Miller, PhD, founder of the Integrative Restoration Institute (IRI®). iRest Yoga Nidra Meditation invites you to explore the experience of deep calm and restoration without first having to attain any special meditation skills or learn any particular philosophy. All you need is yourself and the willingness to show up for the practice. See more and schedule at pittsburghtherapist.org The practice is done by sitting or resting in a laying position and following the the facilitating voice of the teacher. This well-researched practice was developed thoughtfully from the teachings of Yoga and its effectiveness is congruent with findings of neuroscience regarding neuro-plasticity and emotional resilience; it works to activate your natural capacity to access an experience of relaxation, calmness and security allowing you to meet the challenges of life with greater resilience. I also teach therapeutic Hatha Yoga which focuses on building strength, activating new movement patterns and learning how to use slow focused movement to reduce chronic pain, lose weight, reduce insomnia or simply to feel more at home in the physical body. What attracts and excites me about iRest Meditation is that it offers clear guidance in how to work with the wisdom we already have, helping us to mine our inner capacity for health and well-being; bringing to light what is most valuable and meaningful to us rather than pointing us toward an idealism, philosophy or something we have to attain or become. The practice is particularly refreshing as it is grounded in ancient teachings of Yoga but presented simply without losing the complexity and depth of those foundational teachings. Teaching mindful movement through Hatha Yoga is similarly exciting as it works to open up so much potential in us with additional benefits for the physical being. The list of benefits would be too long to include here!