"I am not pain, I have pain": A pilot study examining iRest yoga nidra as a mind-body intervention for persistent pain.

Abstract

Purpose: This pilot study was the first of its kind to examine the experiences of people with persistent pain engaging in a six-week iRest for Pain group program as part of multidisciplinary pain care.

Method: The present study used a qualitative, phenomenological design and reflexive thematic analysis to gain an understanding of the firsthand experience of patients who participated in the iRest for Pain group program. This program was offered in a specialist outpatient pain management service within a regional public hospital in Victoria, Australia.

Results: Participants reported they experienced iRest Yoga Nidra as personal and therapeutic, that the practice facilitated deep relaxation and restoration; for some participants trauma reprocessing and integration; improved pain self-management and self-efficacy, as well as dis-identification from persisting pain as personal identity. Additionally, some participants reported motivation and confidence to use iRest instead of medication, to reduce dependence on opioid medications.

Conclusion: The iRest for Pain group program presents a personally therapeutic and innovative mind-body intervention, which could be offered at various phases from primary to tertiary specialised pain care.