At Crown Point Journeys, we focus almost entirely on deep rest yoga practices like restorative yoga, and for good reason: it's one of the most effective and accessible ways to release tension, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.
So what exactly is restorative yoga? In a nutshell, it's a gentle, passive practice that involves holding poses for extended periods of time with the support of props like blankets, bolsters, and blocks. The goal is to allow the body to fully relax, release tension, and open up to the breath. Because the poses are held for longer periods, it allows the body to release tension and stress on a deeper level.
Tips for Practicing Restorative Yoga:
- Use props: Restorative yoga involves holding poses for extended periods of time with the support of props like blankets, bolsters, and blocks. The props help you to stay comfortable and relaxed in the poses.
- Focus on breath: The goal of restorative yoga is to allow the body to fully relax, release tension, and open up to the breath. Focus on your breath and let it guide you deeper into relaxation.
- Hold poses for longer: Restorative yoga involves holding poses for longer periods of time. This allows the body to release tension and stress on a deeper level.
Benefits of Restorative Yoga:
- Reduces stress: Restorative yoga encourages the release of the "relaxation response," a physiological state characterized by decreased heart rate, breathing, and muscle tension. This can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Improves sleep: Restorative yoga helps to calm the mind and relax the body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Many people who practice restorative yoga report feeling more refreshed and energized after a restful night's sleep.
- Safe for chronic pain and injury: Restorative yoga is a low-impact practice that can be safely modified to suit individual needs. This makes it an excellent option for people who are recovering from injuries or dealing with chronic pain conditions.
- Improves flexibility and balance: By holding poses for extended periods of time, restorative yoga allows the body to release tension and open up to the breath. This can help to improve the range of motion and increase flexibility.
At Crown Point Journeys, we offer a variety of restorative yoga classes and guided journeys designed to help you relax and reset.
