About Me
Amy Prais
I have been practicing yoga since 2006. As a yoga teacher I encourage personal body awareness and emphasize working at your own pace to maximize individual growth. I strive for a warm, approachable teaching style, and with over 2,000 hours of teaching experience I excel at giving clear instructions for the beginner, safe modifications for those with limitations, and options for advancement for those seeking a challenge. My classes are varied in focus with a wide variety of postures. We will work on strength, flexibility, balance, and core awareness, while fostering a sense of calm and connection through breath and mindfulness.
I graduated from Yoga Gyan Jyoti School for Yoga and Ayurveda with a 200 hour Yoga Teacher Certification in May of 2014. I've also completed my 85 hour Prenatal Yoga Teacher Certification and Level I iRest Yoga Nidra teacher training. I am currently enrolled in Prairie Yoga's 500 hour advanced yoga certification (course completion June 2019).
I teach Yoga, Prenatal Yoga, Chair Yoga, and Meditation in DeKalb and Sycamore.
Meditation-iRest Yoga Nidra
What is Yoga Nidra?
Yoga Nidra means "yogic sleep." Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation, so there are no poses or physical practice. You will lie down or you can sit in a chair for the entire practice.
iRest (Integrative Restoration) Yoga Nidra is non-denominational and incorporates the ancient yogic practice of Yoga Nidra as well as principles from modern psychology and neuroscience. iRest Yoga Nidra is a research and evidence-based transformative practice derived from the ancient teachings of meditation that leads to psychological, physical, and spiritual healing and well-being. iRest Yoga Nidra meditation is a practice of deep relaxation and meditative inquiry, which is currently being utilized in VA hospitals, military bases, hospitals and clinics, hospice, homeless shelters, community programs, and schools. Research has shown that iRest effectively reduces PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and chemical dependency while increasing health, resiliency, and well-being.
iRest Yoga Nidra will be held the first and third Fridays of the month at Creative Therapeutics. The meditation begins at 5:30 pm and lasts about an hour. The room opens at 5:15 if you'd like to come early for personal practice or to get centered before the meditation begins. Creative Therapeutics provides mats, blankets, and bolsters, although you are welcome to and encouraged to bring anything that might aid in your comfort, such as your own blanket or favorite pillow. Cost of the class is $15, or you can use your punch card.
Upcoming Meditation Class
January iRest Yoga Nidra sessions are scheduled for Friday, January 4th and Friday, January 18th at Creative Therapeutics. (815) 758-5508