In our fast-paced world, carving out moments of tranquility and inner peace has become increasingly vital — and difficult. But in just a few minutes, you can achieve that elusive total-body calm with restorative yoga.
Restorative yoga is a gentle, calming, therapeutic form of yoga that uses props to support the body as it eases into relaxation and balance. Grounded in the principles of relaxation and mindfulness, this yoga practice embodies the essence of surrendering to stillness and releasing tension.
“Amidst the rush of our busy lives, restorative yoga can offer a sanctuary for the mind and body to recalibrate,” says Diane Ambrosini, E-RYT, C-IAYT, certified yoga therapist and author of Instructing Hatha Yoga. “It can provide a pathway to profound relaxation and inner peace.”
4 Benefits of Restorative Yoga
Scientific research supports the whole-body benefits of restorative yoga.
1. Decreases Symptoms of Depression
A small April 2017 study in the Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities found that regular engagement in restorative yoga postures can alleviate symptoms of depression in certain populations.
Similarly, a March 2017 study in PLOS ONE by researchers from Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland reported significant improvements in depression symptoms for individuals practicing yoga, including restorative postures, twice a week.