Guest Author - Martha McKinnon

Have you tried Restorative Yoga Yet?

Restorative yoga is wonderful respite from these stressful times. It is a gentle, slow style of yoga that incorporates props - blankets, blocks, bolsters, belts, sandbags, and chairs - in various poses to support the body and deepen its benefits. Judith Lasater, veteran yoga teacher and major champion of restorative yoga, states "I often refer to these therapeutic yoga poses as 'active relaxation.' It is a soothing and nurturing yoga practice that promotes the effects of conscious relaxation allowing layers of muscular tension to slowly melt away."

These soothing supportive yoga poses are held for several minutes offering us the opportunity to soften and savor the bliss of being, rather than doing. They have the ability to leave us feeling nourished and well rested. Practicing restorative yoga is like a mini vacation for your body, mind, and spirit.

What are the benefits of Restorative Yoga?

According to Lasater, "When you do restorative yoga you'll stop having the consistent pain of fatigue that we ignore or hide with caffeine. You'll begin to feel more patient. You won't react as quickly." Sounds good, doesn't it?

Additional Benefits of Restorative include:
*Reduces the effects of chronic stress
*Induces the relaxation response helping to soothe the nervous system, lower heart rate and blood pressure
*Calms and focuses the mind
*Cultivates the habit of paying attention so you become aware of how and where you hold tension and learn how to let it go
*Eases menstrual cycle and menopausal symptoms
*Mitigates effects of jet lag
*Moves the spine in all directions keeping it flexible and balanced
*Builds energy instead of depleting it

Is Restorative Yoga for You?

These relaxing yoga poses are designed for when you feel weak, fatigued, or stressed out from daily life. They are also great for before, during, and after major life events such as major holidays, job loss, marriage, divorce, and death; or when you are ill or recovering from injury or illness. It's one of the best things you can do for your overall health and wellness.

If you are interested in giving restorative yoga a try, you can check with your local yoga studio to see if they offer restorative yoga classes. Many do. Or if you would prefer to do restorative yoga at home the book Relax and Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times by Judith Lasater is a wonderful resource.

Relax and Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times available at Amazon