There are so many different styles of yoga that ultimately stem from the same place and deliver (generally speaking) very similar benefits. In this article, we will discuss everything there is to know about restorative yoga and what makes the practice so inherently supportive and restful, while still allowing the body to stretch and find different shapes.
What is restorative yoga?
Restorative yoga is a type of yoga where the body is heavily propped up by use of yoga props. Restorative yoga generally tends to require most of the commonly used yoga props, including:
- Bolsters
- Blocks
- Straps
- Blankets
- Eye pillows
It is a deeply relaxing practice where a fair amount of work is still taking place. Although the body is supported by props, the muscles are learning the imprints from how the props are supporting them, helping the practitioner to find a deep, restful stretch that might otherwise not be obtained. Restorative yoga is just that… restorative. It allows the body to find spaces in shapes that are rejuvenating and formative; it is a great addition to a regular vinyasa or hatha practice and can be practiced any time, any place, utilizing substitutions for certain props if they are unavailable. Restorative postures can be practiced with household items such as:
- Pillows
- Blankets
- Rope/rolled up towels/long pieces of fabric to act as a strap
- Books
- Sheets
- Eye masks
- Neck pillows
Practitioners and teachers should understand that restorative yoga is a viable yoga practice for most people, as the utilization of props can make it quite accessible. Restorative yoga is also a great alternative to a more vigorous vinyasa class for those wishing to take things slow and steady. It’s a great practice for people of all ages and can be modified to fit specific wants and needs.
Why do I cry during restorative yoga?
Oftentimes, the yoga practice can kickstart certain reactive behaviors in the body, like crying. It’s important to note that yoga is a spiritual practice that focuses on the self and mental wellbeing — that being said, it can bring up intense emotions. Sometimes the practice can bring about feelings of clarity, joy, happiness, restfulness, and calmness. But the practice can also bring up feelings of sadness, or profound happiness through tears of joy, and even surprising emotions of intense gratitude or release that also sometimes are expressed through crying.
What are the disadvantages of restorative yoga?
There aren’t really any disadvantages to any yoga practice, lineage, or genre of yoga. There are certain factors that should be considered when taking up a yoga practice or even trying restorative yoga for the first time, but there aren’t really any disadvantages from taking or teaching a restorative yoga class.
Here are some things to be mindful of when taking a restorative yoga class:
- Most people came to relax, so really allow yourself to relax
- It’s usually a quiet, cozy environment
- The teacher will be clear but offer a lot of modifications so you can tailor the practice to you
- There will be a ton of prop usage
- The poses will be held anywhere from 2-7 minutes long; any poses with two sides will need time for both sides
- Some restorative yoga classes are paired with other healing modalities like reiki or acupuncture (you can politely decline if this is the case and you’re not into it – the teacher will accommodate you)
Here are some things to be mindful of when teaching a restorative yoga class:
- Keep a steady pace – since the class moves a bit slower, it’s important to be intentional of how you’re having students utilize their time
- Keep extra props handy – some students may need extra support
- Try to keep your voice at an audible yet calming level
- Check in with your students – if you see someone struggling or uncomfortable, ask them if they need help
- Allow them the freedom to explore the posture – meaning, leave time to linger without saying anything (some of the deepest work is done in silence)
- Give a full Savasana – even though the class is restful, they should still feel there is a foundational yoga asana proponent and Savasana is where the effects of class start to take place in the body & mind
Who would benefit from restorative yoga?
There are many benefits from restorative poses, including enhanced overall sleep health, nervous system regulation, mental and emotional clarity, muscle relaxation and support, and it promotes a healthy circulation of breath throughout the body.
Almost anyone could benefit from restorative yoga just by giving it a try. It’s a great practice for seniors and people with injuries (although anyone injured should consult a doctor before attempting any yoga practice). Even kids can practice restorative yoga and benefit from it. Yoga studios benefit greatly from having a monthly, biweekly, or even weekly restorative yoga class, as it can be an essential way to decompress after a long week at work or after practicing more rigorous yoga asanas or other fitness activities.
The Purpose of Restorative Yoga
The purpose of restorative yoga is the same as any yoga practice… to get you to be fully present. The secondary purpose is to have the props create an imprint on your body in certain postures so that your muscles can get used to being in those positions for long periods of time. This creates muscle memory that will facilitate the body getting into the poses in the future, whenever they are practiced.
Restorative Yoga Practices Near Me
Many yoga studios offer a restorative practice as a longer, workshop-style class if it’s not already a regular class on the schedule. Reason being, restorative classes tend to be a bit slower-paced and because the poses are held for longer and use so many props, there’s a significant amount of time spent setting up the space and moving the props between postures. Typically, a restorative yoga class will be anywhere from 75-120 minutes. The amount of time in each pose will differ based on the teacher. If you’re looking for an exact description of what class will be like, search, “restorative yoga near me” and check a couple listings on Google Maps to find a studio schedule in your area. Usually studios will list a description next to or underneath the class where you can find the instructor’s name, the duration of the class/workshop, and briefly what to expect.
Restorative Yoga Teacher Training
YogaRenew has an online restorative yoga teacher training that is Yoga Alliance certified. If you’ve been considering teaching restorative yoga or want to expand your offerings as a current vinyasa teacher, then this course is for you! You are able to sign up any time and access it from any device. All materials are able to be printed and downloaded so you can access them at your leisure. Enroll today and start learning everything there is to know about restorative yoga.
Gain access to unlimited yoga classes, workshops, and live-streamed events through the YogaRenew app.
