HOW TO SOAK

• Soaking is commonly used for cereals, grains and legumes -- the process is simple: cover seeds with water, set aside in a warm place for at least 12 hours, drain and rinse. By soaking seeds before cooking aids in the absorption of nutrients and digestion. 

(Source: http://www.marksdailyapple.com/the-definitive-guide-to-traditional-food-preparation-and-preservation/#ixzz2A8nX4qaq)