Relax With Restorative Yoga

During these cold winter months the calling to hibernate runs deep. Allowing my body to settle into a restorative yoga practice supports letting go, calming down the nervous system and relaxing into a deep and restful state. You don't need a lot of fancy props such as the ones shown here. You can use cushions from your couch, pillows, a stack of blankets and books to support your body, instead of bolsters and blocks if you don't have them. The key is to get as comfortable in these positions as you can, making sure that your head, neck, shoulders, back, knees and ankles are supported and cushioned, so you can settle in for awhile. I like to stay in each of these poses for 10-15 minutes, so making space in the evening before bed or during a break in the day is a good time. Before bed is nice, as it prepares me for a smoother transition into sleep. My weeks get so busy, that finding the time to enjoy a receptive rather than an active practice can be challenging, but it's always well worth it.