Need to relax? Restorative Yoga could be the answer

One thing that is true for many of us is that we need to relax more. However, it is easier said than done. Finding the time and the ability to relax seems to escape so many of us. Whilst I cannot promise that I have all the answers to finding the time to relax, I can give you an idea of how you might relax effectively.

In fact, I believe that Restorative Yoga might be the answer when it comes to relaxation. 

Why you need to relax

Before I look at how Restorative Yoga can help you to relax, let's think about the reasons why you need to find the time to relax.

It is important to remember that a small amount of short-term stress can actually be good for you. Stress can help you to push through tricky tasks or projects that you may need to complete, and it can also help you to improve your performance and how well you are able to solve problems that you are faced with. 

However, stress that is extended over a longer period of time, for whatever reason, can lead to some issues for you in the future.

This includes altered blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension and digestive processes. All of these changes can be a factor in a variety of illnesses, conditions and disorders that can have a negative impact on your life. This includes a weakened immune system, hormonal imbalances, infertility, anxiety, insomnia and also a higher risk of a heart attack. 

How does Restorative Yoga help?

So. let's move on to the idea of being able to relax. As I have already mentioned, Restorative Yoga could be the tool that you didn't know you needed. 

The idea of Restorative Yoga is that it is gentle. You are moving in a way that is going to work on the deeper layers of your body in a way that is meditative. This is why it is able to help you to relax; because it works on your body physically, physiologically and of course, mentally too. 

During Restorative Yoga, you will be required to hold certain postures or poses for a longer period of time than you may be asked in what is known as "gentle yoga" (the step before). Along with this, you will be provided with props that will offer support to your body and encourage you to be able to properly relax and unwind.

This may include blankets and blocks. As well as helping you to achieve the best relaxation possible during your yoga sessions, having these props will also help you to rest and allow recovery in some of the key muscle groups that you may find the need to be worked on. 

Another great thing about Restorative Yoga is that you can (once you understand the basics) perform the moves at a time that suits you. You just need to be aware of how to achieve each posture and how to remain safe whilst you do it. 

Whilst Restorative Yoga is not the only approach that you can take to being relaxed and refreshed, it is the one that seems to work for many people. So, if you feel that you need a helping hand in unwinding, why not give Restorative Yoga a chance?

I run a monthly Restorative Yoga event ‘Friday Night Chill’ at the beautiful Tranquility Studio near Crowborough. No experience needed and you don’t need to bring anything with you - just a desire to relax fully!