Beginning Your Restorative Yoga For Relaxation Practice

A restorative yoga for relaxation practice can be intimidating to beginners, mostly because of so many props. You can get started with a few helpful guidelines.

The easiest way to get started may be to take a class at a studio where they have all the necessary props readily available. Call or visit online the studios near you to find out if they offer a restorative class. Many do. Saturday and Sundays seem to be popular days for such offerings.

I have taken and enjoyed restorative classes at the following Phoenix area Yoga Studios:

• Desert Song Yoga
• At One Yoga
• Just Breathe Wellness Sanctuary

Practicing Restorative Yoga for Relaxation at Home

Begin by gathering your props
You'll need blocks, a strap, blankets or towels, pillows or bolsters, wall space, and an eye bag. Sandbags can be another nice addition. The more fully your body is supported, the deeper your sense of relaxation and surrender will be.

Do a little stretching
Your body should be warmed up before beginning a restorative practice. A few cat-cows, down dog, standing forward bend, and simple twist should do the trick. It will warm the muscles, create space in the body to prepare it for relaxation, and give your mind a chance to disconnect from the busyness of its thoughts and become more present and connected with your body making it easier to transition into a place of stillness.

Get comfortable
All the poses should feel comfortable. Take the time to get comfortable before you settle in. A small adjustment to a blanket or a minor shift in the body's position can make a huge difference in allowing the body to relax. If something doesn't feel quite right, be creative and use your inner wisdom to guide you toward greater comfort, making any necessary adjustments.

Be compassionate and patient with yourself
Although they look peaceful, restoratives can be challenging for beginners. Just because the body rests quietly doesn't mean the mind will settle into stillness too. There may be days when your body and mind aren't willing to cooperate. Try not to judge yourself if you feel fidgety or your mind wanders. Allow the thoughts to float by bringing your attention back to your breath and your intention to relax.

With continued practice, you will be rewarded with the ability to easily move into a place of deep relaxation. This is what yoga is all about: being able to still our restless bodies and calm our unruly wandering minds so that we may rest quietly in the present moment and connect with the peace within us.

A Few of My Favorite Restorative Yoga for Relaxation Poses

• Legs Up The Wall Pose
• Reclining Bound Angle Pose
• Corpse Pose