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' How beautiful
it is to do nothing, and then rest afterwards. '
~ Spanish Proverb
Restorative Yoga
To 'rest', to 'relax' and
to 'restore' is essential to everyone especially in
today's society and stressful lifestyle. To 'rest'
deeply is to experience absolute relaxation, where there is
effortless in stillness, quietness and peace.
Restorative yoga is active relaxation
practices, which is essential to a complete yoga
practice. A balanced yoga practice encompasses the use
of kinesthetic asana, the inter-play of active release work,
whilst enjoying restorative and relaxation, and the joy
of meditation.
Restorative
and relaxation may
relieve chronic stress and reduce the effects of
stress-related diseases, providing an environment for
self-repair. The principle is to activate the
Parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), which is
responsible for balancing life support functions within
the body and bringing their
response system back to equilibrium. It works to
stimulate the baroreceptors, deactivates the sympathetic
nervous system, therefore quiets the brain and slows the heart
rate. This powerful practice provides conditions for the
natural healing process to occur, and brings the body (physical, mental
and emotional) to a harmonious relationship with nature.
The
practice places emphasis on supporting the physical
layers allowing space and time for one to renew and heal
physiologically. The mental and emotional layers may
then unfold and relax within this secure and comforting
environment. The activities of the brain /
thoughts may settle into quietness and stillness, thus rejuvenating and recharging
oneself psychologically, and promoting overall
well-being. The practitioner experiences 'conscious'
relaxation where one choose to be in a state of
stillness, which differs from sleep where one
experiences 'reduced or absent consciousness'.
It has been experienced
by many that Restorative Yoga balances energetic level.
Where one who experiences fatigued / depleted,
depressed, low energy or sluggish, the practice has the
potential to rejuvenate, restore vibrant energy and lift
the spirit, to feel refreshed and ready to move on.
Whilst one is experiencing agitation, anger,
anxiousness, frustration or an outburst of uncontained
energy, this wonderful practice also has the potential
to calm, relax and restore the balance. During
transitional times or unsettling moments in life, one
may practice restorative postures which promotes groundedness and centredness.
My personal account on this practice over time has given
me the courage to experience patience, security and
compassion for all beings. This is often felt by people around us.
Restorative Yoga may be
practised by anyone and anytime and almost anywhere
(except on busy streets!). Although restorative postures
may look easy and peaceful, it can be challenging for
'new relaxers' or times when the mind or the physical
body is dis-eased. One may take time to
adjust and adapt to doing 'nothing' and rest quietly,
so that the mind may settle. The key is patience and willingness to
let go... to relax and restore. This is love and time
spent with no one, but yourself in stillness.
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