I LOVE Restorative yoga! This type of resting yoga is what assisted me in my journey several years ago when I became extremely ill with mold-associated illness and its resulting challenges of fibromyalgia, fatigue, lack of concentration, IBS, and respiratory response, increased chronic migraine (which I had since age 13) to name a few.
By this style of rest, coupled with mindfulness meditation, mat or chair yoga, and my dedication to my spirituality, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I am grateful for these practices that assist me in becoming whole. I still can have challenges from time to time and more to accomplish health-wise, yet I look forward and not behind. Peaceful wellness begins with the focus within.
Restorative yoga is a style of yoga accessible to anyone to create balance, quiet and restore our bodies and minds to a state of homeostasis. It uses props likes bolsters, blankets, blocks, pillows and anything that supports the practitioner, even those brand new to yoga, to hold poses without strain, promoting deeper relaxation and creating space for healing. Most of the time you are lying down in some form. Although it is possible to do restorative yoga on a chair or in your bed depending on your mobility.
Restorative yoga has a great therapeutic impact during times of stress: illness, injury, pain and over-scheduled lives. Restorative yoga helps to cultivate a healing environment in the body by balancing the nervous system’s optimal energy flow, restoring us at a physical, physiological, energetic and emotional level.
In the studio (New studio opening in July 2022), the room is already preset with mats, blankets, bolsters, heated rice bags, eye pillows, sandbags, and other props so all you need to do walking in the door is lay down and passively enjoy yourself.
To do this at home, I have a suggestion of home items you can use if you do not have yoga props. See list here.
Those who joined me in the past at my old studio, will tell that it is time that is cozy, peaceful and filled with positive energy. At times, I bring out a singing bowl or two or use a yoga nidra (guided deep rest meditation).
You can choose essential oil massage blends to use on your neck or lower back, if you find you need extra support. You can also order from me essential oil blend roll-ons from me to use for your own sessions.
How can I benefit from a Restorative yoga experience?
- Restorative yoga relaxes and regenerates both the body and the mind.
- Restorative yoga improves flexibility without injury risk or pain if done with mindfulness, care and respect for the body.
- Because restorative yoga relaxes the mind, it helps to relieve stress and anxiety.
- Restorative yoga helps insomnia and is a wonderful practice when you are physically, emotionally or mentally tired.
- Restorative yoga improves respiratory capacity and blood circulation.
- Restorative yoga helps you reach an optimal alignment.
- Everyone can do restorative yoga.
Restorative yoga uses various props to allow people to stay in poses for a long time, without any discomfort, stress, strain, injury risk and pain. First developed within the school of B.K.S. Iyengar in India, this supported yoga requires props such as bolsters, blocks, blankets, belts, chairs, walls, benches, sand bags, etc. Compared to more dynamic yoga practices, restorative yoga requires more attention and receptiveness. It involves a different kind of muscular engagement.
If you have any questions or would like to talk with me further about restorative yoga either in the group class session or a private session of deep relaxation, feel free to contact me below.
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