Restorative yoga is a form of yoga that focuses on conscious mind and body relaxation. This type of yoga may be a good choice for people interested in releasing tension and relaxing the body and mind to relieve stress. If you are sick, recovering from an injury or have just given birth, restorative yoga has a renewing and relaxing affect.
There are many physical benefits to a restorative yoga practice. Some of the conditions that may be helped by restorative yoga include anxiety, depression, fatigue, insomnia and migraines.
In the poses, the body is supported using various props. Blankets, straps and bolsters are used to support the body in the pose and allow you to relax into the stretch and gain the greatest benefit from your practice.
The poses are held longer in this form of yoga than in most other types. Since you are supported in the asanas and relaxing into the pose, holding the pose is not uncomfortable. The asanas can be held for up to ten minutes in some cases.
The ultimate goal in the practice is total relaxation of the body and mind. Supporting the body allows you to relax more deeply in the asanas. The body is relaxed and the mind is quiet.
For some people, relaxing the body is not difficult, but relaxing the mind is challenging. Just like beginning meditation, learning to quiet the mind and keep it from wandering to the million things you have to think about in any day isn’t always easy. An easy way to relax the mind is to focus on your breath.
Many people who practice other forms of yoga also practice restorative yoga occasionally. This type of yoga is useful for bringing balance into the hectic pace we all experience with work obligations and family.
Contact your local yoga studio to find a restorative yoga class in your area. Check out this online directory of Restorative Yoga Teachers to find a class in your area.