Have I waxed poetic about restorative yoga yet?

I like the definition I found at http://www.verywellfit.com:

A restful practice that holds yoga poses (asanas) for a longer duration using props like yoga blocks, blankets and bolsters. It is a practice of deep relaxation that emphasizes the meditative aspects of yoga- the union of body and mind. Through the use of props for support, many of the postures are held almost effortlessly.

My definition: this is a gentle hug for the soul.

I can’t go as often as I’d like, both cost and time, but if I can make it once a month I am thrilled. The class I go to is gentle- the lights are dim, the room is well suited to make even my anxious body chill for a bit. The teacher I go to has a voice that comes out like slow dripping honey- it’s understated and just sort of seeps into your mind and body.

In a 75 minute class, we probably only do about seven poses, but they are all gentle and easy- there is nothing to jar your body. You can use as many props as you want to get to your comfort level- this is not a class for competition: this is a class for contemplation. I find my mind really does go blank as I drift in and out of poses, quietly melodic music as the backdrop. The goal is to go slowly and deal with whatever is stressing you out- physical, mental or emotional. We set intentions of how we want to feel…

My favorite is the last post, which is really flat on our backs with support wherever we feel we need it. He instructs us to relax our body starting at the toes and working slowly up. I’m not kidding, but I feel the parts of my body that I’m relaxing actually feeling warmer. It’s an amazing feeling.

I am always pleasantly dopey after a class, but I find the benefits to last me for at least a week. My resting heart rate drops for days after the class, and I find that I sleep much better: an easy, restful slumber.

If you have the ability to try a restorative yoga class, I say give it a whirl. It just might make you feel better.

69 thoughts on “Restorative Yoga”

      1. Your description is just the encouragement I needed! I have a friend who’s been trying to pull me into a class…but I don’t think I understood the ‘restorative’ aspect. Thanks, LA! 😘

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      2. It’s not about the poses…it’s about allowing your body to sink into a pose that’s right for you. My teacher even hands out weighted eye masks for certain poses

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  20. I used to teach yoga and this is my favorite kind. You are actually stretching the fascia where a lot of stress and anxiety is stored. It also may be only time you can get tucked in under a blanket as an adult.

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  27. So glad you’ve fallen in love with Restorative Yoga. I teach it online and have a recorded archive of three years of online sessions. Have a look at my site (sorry for the plug) onlineyogawithmike.co.uk or my YouTube channel has lots of free sessions youtube.com/@mikesyogapodcast

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