Elise Ratliff
Gentle, supportive, and therapeutic are just a few words that describe restorative yoga. “I feel energized and relaxed at the same time, it’s a great way to shift to a positive mindset,” commented Susan at a recent class.
Restorative yoga is a style of yoga that encourages physical, mental, and emotional relaxation. Appropriate for all levels, restorative yoga is practiced at a slow pace, focusing on long holds, stillness, and deep breathing.
This yoga style is known for its ability to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. This is the “rest and relax” part of your nervous system that helps keep basic functions working as they should. By allowing time for longer holds in a shape or pose, along with deep breathing, restorative yoga helps elicit the relaxation response. This response can help slow breathing, reduce blood pressure, and produce a feeling of calm and increased well–being. One of the best poses to achieve this is called “legs up the wall.”
A key feature in restorative yoga is the use of props, such as blankets, bolsters, blocks, and straps. The props support you in holding passive poses longer without exerting or tiring out your muscles. Because you’re encouraged to relax fully in the pose while focusing on your breath, restorative yoga allows you to release tension in your muscles for longer periods without discomfort.
Restorative Yoga is done on the floor and is suitable for all fitness levels. Blocks and straps are provided, please bring a mat and blankets. Feel free to bring other things from home that you can use for props such as towels, bolsters, or cushions. There is a fee to attend classes at Cottonwood/Palo Verde. $5 per class or $20 for five classes.
Classes at Cottonwood/Palo Verde: Monday and Friday at 10 a.m.
IronOaks Wellness Center: Thursday at 10 a.m.
Hope to see you there!
~Namaste~