Yoga can be a great workout, especially if you’re practicing vinyasa or power yoga. Continuous flows and fast-paced movement get your heart rate up and your blood pumping. Other types of yoga, though, can have the opposite effect. Restorative yoga is practiced as a means of slowing down, cultivating relaxation, and calming the nervous system. Holding poses with the support of props for an extended period of time can help to steady the breath, slow the heart rate, activating the parasympathetic nervous system. From here our bodies can “rest and digest,” ultimately leading to greater wellbeing. Here are a few of our go-to restorative yoga classes for whenever we’re feeling a bit uptight. Feel free to grab any props or pillows you may have to help you reach a deep state of relaxation.
20-Minute Full Body Stretch
In this video, Yoga with Bird guides us through a short and sweet stretch perfect for cultivating relaxation. You’ll leave feeling rested and a little lighter, and it’s a great alternative to a nap.
Restorative Yoga 35 Minute Practice
Jessia Richburg teaches this restorative class where poses are held for about one to two minutes. She doesn’t incorporate any props, but you can certainly use any that you like if you know it’ll help you relax.
Intro to Yin Yoga
Yoga with Adriene is one of our favorite yoga YouTube channels, and this video is one we turn to for relaxation often. She guides you through gentle poses designed to cultivate deep relaxation and leaves you feeling calm.
