Restorative Yoga
Restorative yoga has been an important addition to our studio's offerings this past year. After training with highly esteemed yoga teacher and author of Relax and Renew: Restful Yoga For Stressful Times, Judith Lasater; Robyn Bowman, Nicole Patton and Natalie Suhanic have brought the work of restorative yoga into Creating Space Yoga Studio.
We have seen changes in the studio...more bolsters have arrived, the blankets have multiplied and we have filled more bins with yoga blocks, sandbags, belts and eye pillows. Restorative Yoga is a celebration of props!
Let your restorative yoga practice be a celebration of YOU! Here are a few ways that you can make your restorative yoga practice deeper and more meaningful to you.
Please pre-book each restorative class unless you have registered for the entire term of restorative classes. The restorative class size is limited to 8 students. Reserve so you are not disappointed.
Try not to rush to class. Let your restorative practice begin with the intention of nurturing yourself. That begins the moment you start planning your day to come to a restorative class. Give yourself lots of time and take a deep breath the moment you arrive at the studio door. Walk through the door and for now, leave your day behind.
Turn off your cell phone. Take off your watch. This time is for YOU!
Wear comfortable clothing and consider dressing in layers. As the body relaxes the internal body temperature typically lowers. In this yoga class, you are welcome to keep your socks on!
Please refrain from wearing strong scents or perfumes. Refrain from drinking alcohol or having caffeine before your restorative practice.
Double up your mats. You will be spending most of the class on the floor. Use two mats if you wish to have more ease when on the floor.
Once you collect your props, take some time simply sitting and breathing.
Don't skimp on props! Support creates ease and props enable support. Don't be shy...use the props and ask for more if needed.
Take the time to get comfortable with your props. Don't assume that your teacher knows what you are feeling. Listen to your body and work with your teacher until you feel complete support and ease.
Always let your teacher know if you feel discomfort. There are always options.
Once settled, allow yourself the time to feel your body move through the layers of release. Feel how it feels to be supported, warm and safe.
Notice your thoughts, but avoid engaging your thoughts.
Feel your breath.
When you move away from a pose...move slowly, gently and mindfully.
Take a few moments between each pose to feel the effects of the pose before moving on to the next pose.
At the end of class, mindfully fold your blankets neatly. Make this a part of your practice!
Return your props to the proper locations.
Before driving, sit behind the wheel and take a few deep breaths ensuring that you are ready to drive and are fully alert again.
Include a regular restorative practice in your week. The practice becomes accumulative!
Enjoy your practice. Nurture yourself. You are worth it!
"Breathing in with ease. Breathing out with gratitude."
