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.
Do you have something I can print out?
Yes. To see a printable informational flyer click here.Do you teach anything else?
Yes. I teach Yin, Hatha, Core, Deep Relaxation, and Therapeutic. For more information see my about, classes, or schedule page.What is it?
What is Restorative Yoga?
Restorative Yoga is a therapeutic style of yoga which utilizes props to make it easier for the body to get into certain poses, and thus, surrender to the pose. Practicing poses using props provides a completely supportive environment for total relaxation. The more your body is supported in the poses the deeper the sense of relaxation. Relaxation is a state in which there is no movement, no effort, and the brain is quiet. Typically, Restorative poses are sustained for ten minutes or for as long as you are comfortable.Why should I practice Restorative Yoga?
In a chronically stressed state, quality of life and perhaps life itself is at risk. The body's capacity to heal itself can be compromised, inhibiting recovery from injury or illness, or it may create new illness or injury, including high blood pressure, ulcers, back pain, immune dysfunction and depression.The antidote to stress is relaxation. Restorative yoga focuses on relaxation, renewal, effortlessness and ease. Blankets, bolsters, straps, and other props safely support the body in various postures which allows the body to move towards a state of balance. This practice soothes your nervous system, helps you quiet your mind and invites you to release deeply held tension.
Restorative poses cultivate the habit of attention. The mind should always focus on the breath. When you notice your mind wandering bring it back to the breath. You can also focus on where and how you hold tension. Then use the breath as a tool to release the tension. Breathe to the area of tension and on the exhale release the gripping. During these periods of deep relaxation you will be healed and nurtured from within.
What is the History of Restorative Yoga?
Judith Lasater says ~The development of these poses is credited to B.K.S. Iyengar, of Pune, India. Author of the contemporary classic Light on Yoga and numerous other books, Iyengar has been teaching yoga for more than sixty years. Widely recognized as a worldwide authority, he is one of the most creative teachers of yoga today.
Iyengar's early teaching experience showed him how pain or injury can result from a student straining in a yoga pose. He experimented with "props," modifying poses until the student could practice without strain. Iyengar also explored how these modified poses could help people recover from illness or injury. It is because of his creativity that the restorative poses in my book (Relax and Renew)-most of which have been developed or directly inspired by him-are such powerful tools to reduce stress and restore health.
When you can experience the deliciousness of a Restorative pose for yourself you will know why I am grateful to both B.K.S. Iyengar and to Judith Lasater for their work in this area. I think we could all benefit from Restorative yoga. For examples of Restorative poses, or if you are wondering what a class is like or if you just want more information I invite you to explore this website and try out some Restorative poses to treat yourself to some deep relaxation and stress relief.
Happy Exploring!