Restorative Yoga

What Is Restorative Yoga?

Restorative Yoga is a gentle, slow, and deeply relaxing style of yoga.
It focuses on complete rest, healing, and calming the nervous system by using many props like bolsters, blankets, pillows, and blocks.

Unlike active yoga styles, restorative poses are fully supported, allowing the body to relax without effort.

Key Features of Restorative Yoga

1. Very Gentle & Passive

  • No stretching or muscular effort

  • Body is fully supported in each pose

  • More like meditation than exercise

2. Long Hold Times

  • Each pose is held for 5–20 minutes

  • Encourages deep relaxation and stress release

3. Focus on Relaxation

  • Activates the parasympathetic nervous system (“rest and digest”)

  • Helps reduce anxiety, fatigue, and mental tension

4. Use of Props

Common props include:

  • Bolster

  • Cushions

  • Pillows

  • Blankets

  • Blocks

  • Eye pillow

Props support the body so it can completely let go.

Teacher

VB Joshi

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Satyam Datar

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Rucha Kanitkar

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Benefits of Restorative Yoga

  • Deep relaxation for body and mind

  • Reduces stress and anxiety

  • Improves sleep quality

  • Helps with chronic fatigue or burnout

  • Releases tension in muscles and joints

  • Supports recovery from injury or illness

  • Balances the nervous system

  • Good for emotional healing

Common Restorative Yoga Poses

  • Supported Child’s Pose

  • Supported Reclining Bound Angle Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana)

  • Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani)

  • Supported Bridge Pose

  • Supported Forward Fold

  • Savasana (Relaxation Pose) with props

Most poses are lying down or seated.