Restorative Yoga Classes!!

Beginning in early September, a new class will be offered on Tuesday and Thursday evenings called Restorative yoga.  For those of you who may not have heard of Restorative yoga before, it is a practice that uses soothing well supportive poses that allow the mind and body to linger for a while until you enter into a state of deep relaxation. It can promote healing, improve digestion and reduce stress. You may have done some Restorative yoga poses in yoga class already as an alternative to Shavasna (final relaxation), or for basic relaxation in the middle of the class.

Some common restorative postures include but are not limited to, legs up the wall, supported chest openers, child’s pose, supported twists and reclining bound ankle pose. Each pose offers different benefits to the body, mind and spirit.

Postures are usually well supported by a variety of props including blocks, sand bags, pillows, blankets and straps. All of these props are available in the Milwaukie Wellness Center yoga studio for student use. Although the use of props can be intimidating at first, each posture will be well thought out, you will be advised how to set up your props and guided into relaxation by your instructor, Megan G. Ideally one should hold a posture for about 10 minutes, so usually about seven restorative postures will be done each class.

Once you learn the postures in class you will be able to use them in your practice at home and find creative ways to support your body with props. The group atmosphere in restorative yoga can be relaxing and nurturing. Class allows one to schedule time in their day to relax and renew.

Restorative yoga postures are peaceful and sweet. They can be referred to as the “dessert of yoga”.  For more information and ideas, see Judith Lasater’s Relax and Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times.

Images used by permission from Kim Shetter kshetter@hotmail.com

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