restorative yoga Archives - yourdailysportfix.com yourdailysportfix.com Thu, 05 Oct 2023 07:35:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://yourdailysportfix.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cropped-FAVICON_2-32x32.png restorative yoga Archives - yourdailysportfix.com 32 32 Turn Your Yoga Practice Upside Down With These Inverted Poses https://yourdailysportfix.com/turn-your-yoga-practice-upside-down-with-these-inverted-poses/ Sun, 08 Oct 2023 08:53:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=24012 Handstands are much more than just impressive feats of strength or something that makes for cool Instagram photos. In yoga, they’re what’s known as a type of inversion, or pose where the hips and heart are positioned above the head. Inversions are practiced for a variety of reasons, such as to cultivate balance and improve […]

The post Turn Your Yoga Practice Upside Down With These Inverted Poses appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Handstands are much more than just impressive feats of strength or something that makes for cool Instagram photos. In yoga, they’re what’s known as a type of inversion, or pose where the hips and heart are positioned above the head. Inversions are practiced for a variety of reasons, such as to cultivate balance and improve circulation, and handstands are just one of several inverted poses that can offer such benefits. If you’d like to include some inversions in your practice but don’t feel ready to go all the way upside down, here are a few gentler alternatives.

Dolphin Pose

Dolphin Pose is similar to Downward-Facing Dog and is an effective way to strengthen your shoulders if you’re looking to eventually balance in a forearm stand. Start in a Downward Dog position, then slowly lower your forearms to the mat while keeping your elbows directly under your shoulders. Press your palms into the floor, forming a triangle with your forearms. Continue to lift your hips upward, holding for 5-10 breaths before releasing into a Child’s Pose.

Legs Up the Wall

If you’re looking for something a bit more restorative, Legs Up the Wall can help to improve circulation and promote a sense of calm without challenging your muscles or sense of balance. On your bed, the floor, or any comfortable surface, lie on your back with your hips close to a wall. Extend your legs upward, resting them against the wall with your knees slightly bent. Hold for 5 minutes, breathing deeply into your belly.

Supported Shoulder Stand

Supported Shoulder Stand is similar to handstand in that it positions the body almost completely upside down, but requires significantly less skill to perform. In addition to encouraging lymphatic drainage, the gentle pressure this posture exerts on the throat is a great way to stimulate the thyroid. To perform Supported Shoulder Stand, place a folded blanket under your shoulders and lie on your back. Lift your legs and hips upward, placing your hands on your lower back or your hips against a chair for support.

The post Turn Your Yoga Practice Upside Down With These Inverted Poses appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Yin vs. Restorative Yoga: What’s the Difference? https://yourdailysportfix.com/yin-vs-restorative-yoga-whats-the-difference/ Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:12:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=23947 Yoga is a popular form of fitness for its capacity to increase flexibility and strength, with different styles of yoga being more or less appropriate depending on one’s specific goals. Yin and restorative yoga, for example, are some of the best options if you’re looking to cultivate a sense of grounding and calm, but what […]

The post Yin vs. Restorative Yoga: What’s the Difference? appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Yoga is a popular form of fitness for its capacity to increase flexibility and strength, with different styles of yoga being more or less appropriate depending on one’s specific goals. Yin and restorative yoga, for example, are some of the best options if you’re looking to cultivate a sense of grounding and calm, but what exactly is the difference between the two? Read on for a few key points and some tips for how to choose which style is right for you.

Yin Yoga

Yin yoga targets the body’s deep connective tissues and is ideal for increasing overall flexibility and range of motion in the joints. While it can certainly promote relaxation as well, this style of yoga is not necessarily easy. Poses are typically held for about 3-5 minutes and can become quite uncomfortable after a while. Practitioners are encouraged to find a sense of stillness and breathe through the discomfort, making yin yoga an exercise in mindfulness, as well.

Restorative Yoga

Restorative yoga, on the other hand, offers a gentler, more nurturing experience with a focus on comfort and deep rest. Props such as bolsters and blankets are used to support the body in various poses, and yoga teachers will often play calm, slow music and dim the lights to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Choosing the Right One for You

As with any form of fitness, it’s essential to consider your goals when choosing between yin and restorative yoga. Both can be effective for releasing physical and emotional tension, but if you’re open to a challenge and want to work on flexibility, yin yoga may be more appropriate. For deep relaxation and self-care, stick with restorative yoga.

The post Yin vs. Restorative Yoga: What’s the Difference? appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> These Yoga Classes By Jessica Richburg are the Perfect Way to End Your Day https://yourdailysportfix.com/these-yoga-classes-by-jessica-richburg-are-the-perfect-way-to-end-your-day/ Thu, 02 Mar 2023 08:34:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=22175 Winding down after a long, busy day can be tricky. Sometimes it requires a bit of effort to switch from work to relaxation mode, but making the transition is essential for getting high-quality rest. When we’ve had a hectic day, we find a little yoga can be just the thing to help us move into […]

The post These Yoga Classes By Jessica Richburg are the Perfect Way to End Your Day appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Winding down after a long, busy day can be tricky. Sometimes it requires a bit of effort to switch from work to relaxation mode, but making the transition is essential for getting high-quality rest. When we’ve had a hectic day, we find a little yoga can be just the thing to help us move into a peaceful night. One of our favorite teachers is Jessica Richburg, a 500-hr. certified instructor with a talent for creating calming flows that always leave us feeling ready for bed. Here are a few of her classes we love.

“Yoga For A Relaxing Night’s Sleep”

This 10-minute routine is perfect for those nights when you’re just too tired to roll out your mat. It can be done from the comfort of your bed using nothing but a couple of pillows for support. You’ll be ready for sleep before savasana is finished.

“20 Minute Evening Yoga”

If tight muscles are getting in the way of a good night’s sleep, try this 20-minute class designed to create space and ease in the body. It contains plenty of deep stretches and ends with a long savasana to help you stay calm and comfortable all night long.

“Yin Yoga Class With Props”

For those super stressful days where you really need a bit of quiet time, we recommend this one-hour yin yoga class. It includes gentle stretches with long holds to help release tension from the body. Use the recommended props to make it feel extra restorative.

The post These Yoga Classes By Jessica Richburg are the Perfect Way to End Your Day appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> What is Yoga Nidra and How to Practice It https://yourdailysportfix.com/what-is-yoga-nidra-and-how-to-practice-it/ Wed, 22 Dec 2021 06:48:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=19039 Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep, is an ancient practice that originated in India. Its objective is to help you relax while still maintaining a level of consciousness. It’s different than other meditation practices in that Yoga Nidra is performed in a fully reclined position. A guided body scan is then offered by a meditation or […]

The post What is Yoga Nidra and How to Practice It appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep, is an ancient practice that originated in India. Its objective is to help you relax while still maintaining a level of consciousness. It’s different than other meditation practices in that Yoga Nidra is performed in a fully reclined position. A guided body scan is then offered by a meditation or yoga teacher. It’s a perfect method for anyone who struggles with mediation to start cultivating a practice. Try not to fall asleep, but if you do, that’s okay, because it just means your body needs to rest. It’s important to grant yourself this so that you can maintain optimal health. Yoga Nidra makes for a great mid-day nap alternative, but can also be used to wind down at night.

How to Practice

Find a comfortable, quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. It can be helpful to dim the lights, though candles aren’t recommended as you’ll have your eyes closed. The goal of Yoga Nidra is to turn the senses inward, so it’s best to avoid using essential oils or anything that will draw your attention to your surroundings. We also suggest wearing loose, comfortable clothing. This is one of our favorite guided Yoga Nidra videos to help you in your practice—press play when you’re ready, lie down on your bed or mat, and just listen.

The post What is Yoga Nidra and How to Practice It appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Restorative Yoga Classes to Calm Your Nervous System https://yourdailysportfix.com/restorative-yoga-classes-to-calm-your-nervous-system/ Sat, 06 Nov 2021 11:34:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=19211 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. […]

The post Restorative Yoga Classes to Calm Your Nervous System appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> 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.

The post Restorative Yoga Classes to Calm Your Nervous System appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Why You Should Try Restorative Yoga https://yourdailysportfix.com/why-you-should-try-restorative-yoga/ Thu, 26 Aug 2021 12:50:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=18295 Unlike vinyasa and hot yoga, which are intense and challenging, restorative yoga is meant to be restful. It is a passive form of yoga that helps calm the mind and body through gentle, meditative poses. You can expect to hold a restorative yoga pose for anywhere between five and 20 minutes, which is much longer […]

The post Why You Should Try Restorative Yoga appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Unlike vinyasa and hot yoga, which are intense and challenging, restorative yoga is meant to be restful. It is a passive form of yoga that helps calm the mind and body through gentle, meditative poses. You can expect to hold a restorative yoga pose for anywhere between five and 20 minutes, which is much longer than in other styles of yoga. Because the goal is to allow your body to relax fully, cushions are often used during sessions, so you don’t have to use effort to hold the position. Here are a few benefits of practicing this unique type of yoga.

Reduces Stress Levels

Restorative yoga activates the body’s parasympathetic nervous system. By allowing time for longer asanas (poses) and deeper breathing, the body’s relaxation response is activated.

Relieves Pain

Research has shown that restorative yoga can be helpful at reducing chronic pain, particularly back pain and headaches.

Improves Sleep

As a result of reducing stress levels, restorative yoga can also lead to better sleep.

It’s Gentle On Your Body

Restorative yoga can be practiced by all age groups, and is generally safe and often recommended to people with chronic injuries. It can also be easily modified to suit pregnant women.

The post Why You Should Try Restorative Yoga appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> restorative yoga Archives - yourdailysportfix.com yourdailysportfix.com Thu, 05 Oct 2023 07:35:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://yourdailysportfix.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cropped-FAVICON_2-32x32.png restorative yoga Archives - yourdailysportfix.com 32 32 Turn Your Yoga Practice Upside Down With These Inverted Poses https://yourdailysportfix.com/turn-your-yoga-practice-upside-down-with-these-inverted-poses/ Sun, 08 Oct 2023 08:53:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=24012 Handstands are much more than just impressive feats of strength or something that makes for cool Instagram photos. In yoga, they’re what’s known as a type of inversion, or pose where the hips and heart are positioned above the head. Inversions are practiced for a variety of reasons, such as to cultivate balance and improve […]

The post Turn Your Yoga Practice Upside Down With These Inverted Poses appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Handstands are much more than just impressive feats of strength or something that makes for cool Instagram photos. In yoga, they’re what’s known as a type of inversion, or pose where the hips and heart are positioned above the head. Inversions are practiced for a variety of reasons, such as to cultivate balance and improve circulation, and handstands are just one of several inverted poses that can offer such benefits. If you’d like to include some inversions in your practice but don’t feel ready to go all the way upside down, here are a few gentler alternatives.

Dolphin Pose

Dolphin Pose is similar to Downward-Facing Dog and is an effective way to strengthen your shoulders if you’re looking to eventually balance in a forearm stand. Start in a Downward Dog position, then slowly lower your forearms to the mat while keeping your elbows directly under your shoulders. Press your palms into the floor, forming a triangle with your forearms. Continue to lift your hips upward, holding for 5-10 breaths before releasing into a Child’s Pose.

Legs Up the Wall

If you’re looking for something a bit more restorative, Legs Up the Wall can help to improve circulation and promote a sense of calm without challenging your muscles or sense of balance. On your bed, the floor, or any comfortable surface, lie on your back with your hips close to a wall. Extend your legs upward, resting them against the wall with your knees slightly bent. Hold for 5 minutes, breathing deeply into your belly.

Supported Shoulder Stand

Supported Shoulder Stand is similar to handstand in that it positions the body almost completely upside down, but requires significantly less skill to perform. In addition to encouraging lymphatic drainage, the gentle pressure this posture exerts on the throat is a great way to stimulate the thyroid. To perform Supported Shoulder Stand, place a folded blanket under your shoulders and lie on your back. Lift your legs and hips upward, placing your hands on your lower back or your hips against a chair for support.

The post Turn Your Yoga Practice Upside Down With These Inverted Poses appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Yin vs. Restorative Yoga: What’s the Difference? https://yourdailysportfix.com/yin-vs-restorative-yoga-whats-the-difference/ Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:12:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=23947 Yoga is a popular form of fitness for its capacity to increase flexibility and strength, with different styles of yoga being more or less appropriate depending on one’s specific goals. Yin and restorative yoga, for example, are some of the best options if you’re looking to cultivate a sense of grounding and calm, but what […]

The post Yin vs. Restorative Yoga: What’s the Difference? appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Yoga is a popular form of fitness for its capacity to increase flexibility and strength, with different styles of yoga being more or less appropriate depending on one’s specific goals. Yin and restorative yoga, for example, are some of the best options if you’re looking to cultivate a sense of grounding and calm, but what exactly is the difference between the two? Read on for a few key points and some tips for how to choose which style is right for you.

Yin Yoga

Yin yoga targets the body’s deep connective tissues and is ideal for increasing overall flexibility and range of motion in the joints. While it can certainly promote relaxation as well, this style of yoga is not necessarily easy. Poses are typically held for about 3-5 minutes and can become quite uncomfortable after a while. Practitioners are encouraged to find a sense of stillness and breathe through the discomfort, making yin yoga an exercise in mindfulness, as well.

Restorative Yoga

Restorative yoga, on the other hand, offers a gentler, more nurturing experience with a focus on comfort and deep rest. Props such as bolsters and blankets are used to support the body in various poses, and yoga teachers will often play calm, slow music and dim the lights to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Choosing the Right One for You

As with any form of fitness, it’s essential to consider your goals when choosing between yin and restorative yoga. Both can be effective for releasing physical and emotional tension, but if you’re open to a challenge and want to work on flexibility, yin yoga may be more appropriate. For deep relaxation and self-care, stick with restorative yoga.

The post Yin vs. Restorative Yoga: What’s the Difference? appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> These Yoga Classes By Jessica Richburg are the Perfect Way to End Your Day https://yourdailysportfix.com/these-yoga-classes-by-jessica-richburg-are-the-perfect-way-to-end-your-day/ Thu, 02 Mar 2023 08:34:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=22175 Winding down after a long, busy day can be tricky. Sometimes it requires a bit of effort to switch from work to relaxation mode, but making the transition is essential for getting high-quality rest. When we’ve had a hectic day, we find a little yoga can be just the thing to help us move into […]

The post These Yoga Classes By Jessica Richburg are the Perfect Way to End Your Day appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Winding down after a long, busy day can be tricky. Sometimes it requires a bit of effort to switch from work to relaxation mode, but making the transition is essential for getting high-quality rest. When we’ve had a hectic day, we find a little yoga can be just the thing to help us move into a peaceful night. One of our favorite teachers is Jessica Richburg, a 500-hr. certified instructor with a talent for creating calming flows that always leave us feeling ready for bed. Here are a few of her classes we love.

“Yoga For A Relaxing Night’s Sleep”

This 10-minute routine is perfect for those nights when you’re just too tired to roll out your mat. It can be done from the comfort of your bed using nothing but a couple of pillows for support. You’ll be ready for sleep before savasana is finished.

“20 Minute Evening Yoga”

If tight muscles are getting in the way of a good night’s sleep, try this 20-minute class designed to create space and ease in the body. It contains plenty of deep stretches and ends with a long savasana to help you stay calm and comfortable all night long.

“Yin Yoga Class With Props”

For those super stressful days where you really need a bit of quiet time, we recommend this one-hour yin yoga class. It includes gentle stretches with long holds to help release tension from the body. Use the recommended props to make it feel extra restorative.

The post These Yoga Classes By Jessica Richburg are the Perfect Way to End Your Day appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> What is Yoga Nidra and How to Practice It https://yourdailysportfix.com/what-is-yoga-nidra-and-how-to-practice-it/ Wed, 22 Dec 2021 06:48:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=19039 Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep, is an ancient practice that originated in India. Its objective is to help you relax while still maintaining a level of consciousness. It’s different than other meditation practices in that Yoga Nidra is performed in a fully reclined position. A guided body scan is then offered by a meditation or […]

The post What is Yoga Nidra and How to Practice It appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep, is an ancient practice that originated in India. Its objective is to help you relax while still maintaining a level of consciousness. It’s different than other meditation practices in that Yoga Nidra is performed in a fully reclined position. A guided body scan is then offered by a meditation or yoga teacher. It’s a perfect method for anyone who struggles with mediation to start cultivating a practice. Try not to fall asleep, but if you do, that’s okay, because it just means your body needs to rest. It’s important to grant yourself this so that you can maintain optimal health. Yoga Nidra makes for a great mid-day nap alternative, but can also be used to wind down at night.

How to Practice

Find a comfortable, quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. It can be helpful to dim the lights, though candles aren’t recommended as you’ll have your eyes closed. The goal of Yoga Nidra is to turn the senses inward, so it’s best to avoid using essential oils or anything that will draw your attention to your surroundings. We also suggest wearing loose, comfortable clothing. This is one of our favorite guided Yoga Nidra videos to help you in your practice—press play when you’re ready, lie down on your bed or mat, and just listen.

The post What is Yoga Nidra and How to Practice It appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Restorative Yoga Classes to Calm Your Nervous System https://yourdailysportfix.com/restorative-yoga-classes-to-calm-your-nervous-system/ Sat, 06 Nov 2021 11:34:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=19211 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. […]

The post Restorative Yoga Classes to Calm Your Nervous System appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> 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.

The post Restorative Yoga Classes to Calm Your Nervous System appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Why You Should Try Restorative Yoga https://yourdailysportfix.com/why-you-should-try-restorative-yoga/ Thu, 26 Aug 2021 12:50:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=18295 Unlike vinyasa and hot yoga, which are intense and challenging, restorative yoga is meant to be restful. It is a passive form of yoga that helps calm the mind and body through gentle, meditative poses. You can expect to hold a restorative yoga pose for anywhere between five and 20 minutes, which is much longer […]

The post Why You Should Try Restorative Yoga appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Unlike vinyasa and hot yoga, which are intense and challenging, restorative yoga is meant to be restful. It is a passive form of yoga that helps calm the mind and body through gentle, meditative poses. You can expect to hold a restorative yoga pose for anywhere between five and 20 minutes, which is much longer than in other styles of yoga. Because the goal is to allow your body to relax fully, cushions are often used during sessions, so you don’t have to use effort to hold the position. Here are a few benefits of practicing this unique type of yoga.

Reduces Stress Levels

Restorative yoga activates the body’s parasympathetic nervous system. By allowing time for longer asanas (poses) and deeper breathing, the body’s relaxation response is activated.

Relieves Pain

Research has shown that restorative yoga can be helpful at reducing chronic pain, particularly back pain and headaches.

Improves Sleep

As a result of reducing stress levels, restorative yoga can also lead to better sleep.

It’s Gentle On Your Body

Restorative yoga can be practiced by all age groups, and is generally safe and often recommended to people with chronic injuries. It can also be easily modified to suit pregnant women.

The post Why You Should Try Restorative Yoga appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]>