Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly do you do in Restorative Yoga anyway?
In my Restorative Stations open class, I set up the room before hand. I set up 5 stations of 4 spots each. I like to include a forward fold, a twist, an inversion and at least one heart-center opener. Each person will get to experience each pose. I time each posture and direct the students on when to switch sides and when to come out. Before class starts I demonstrate each pose: how to get in, how to make adjustments for maximum comfort, what pose to take if the one offered is not available to you, and how to get out again. To see an example of a class flow plan click here.Can someone who has never done yoga before do Restorative yoga?
Yes. You do not have to have any yoga experience to try Restorative yoga. Look at the poses page to see how much support Restorative yoga offers you.What if I am really stiff?
Perfect. Restorative supports you where ever you are with blocks, blankets, bolsters, pillows and any other prop you need to be comfortable enough to relax into the pose.Is there anybody who shouldn't do Restorative yoga?
There are some contraindications:~ Degenerative bone disease: any pose that puts pressure on the spine
~ Pregnancy: modify some poses after 3 months
~ No inversions if: hiatal hernia, retinal problems, glaucoma, migraines, heart problems,
neck problem, infection in the head, menstruation
How long do you stay in a pose?
In my open classes, each pose is held around 10 minutes with 1-2 minutes allocated on each end of the pose for students to transfer to another station and get themselves set up. After everyone has done each pose we take a long Savasana (final resting position) with tons of props: bolsters under the knees, neck and wrists, maybe an eye pillow, anything that will allow your body complete ease, and then we do a deep relaxation exercise.Do I have to wear anything special?
You don't have to wear anything special but it's best to wear something warm, cozy and stretchy.Do I have to bring any props?
In my open class at Yoga North, the only thing we do not provide is a personal eye pillow. Of course you do not have to use an eye pillow but it is nice if you have one. Otherwise, you don't have to bring anything - not even your mat.How long is a class and how much does it cost?
Drop-in classes are 75 minutes. Prices vary at Yoga North from $8.50 - $12.50 per person depending on if you are a student or senior, if you have a punchcard, or if you are a one-time, drop-in student.Private sessions are 90 minutes. Generally, I hold the class at Yoga North. Price: 1-3 people = $80; 4-10 people = $100; more than 10 = $100 base price plus $10/ea person. Maximum group size at Yoga North is 20. Contact me to schedule your private (individual or group) Restorative yoga session.