Style Spotlight: Restorative Yoga with Abigail
In conversation with Abigail:
1. In your own words, how would describe the style of your class?
The style of my Restorative class is, as the name implies, restful. We deliberately rest in a handful of well-supported/propped poses for 75 minutes. Sometimes, I add in some mild movement (rolling around on the floor more-or-less), but for the most part, my Restorative class is restful. Compared to other styles of yoga, this style does not have a lot of input or cues from the teacher. I provide specific details on how to set up a pose in a comfortable way and often offer modifications and variations, but after that, it's chill and quiet time. This is such a nice way to truly be in your body, enjoy the quiet, feel the breath, and maybe even catch a little snooze.
2. What do you like about teaching this style?
I like teaching Restorative yoga because our students are benefiting from it. Regular practitioners of this style can admit to the relaxing and therapeutic effects of this practice. The benefits of Restorative yoga can carry over to off the mat life as well by emphasizing the need for our bodies and our minds to rest (cultivating a healthy sleep routine), slowing down or taking our time with a task (how often are you rushing from one thing to the next?), and cultivating kindness and patience towards ourselves and others (next time you are in line somewhere waiting, feel and enjoy your breath, talk to others next to you, etc.). As a teacher of this style of yoga, the process of preparing a sequence for class is quite different as well. It still requires careful planning, but the objective is so very different than other styles of yoga. I approach this class with comfort and rest in mind and plan with the intention of utilizing lots of props!
3. What do you like about practicing this style?
I like practicing Restorative yoga because it helps me tap into the more calming and cooling aspects of existing in the world. This is hard for me since I am a habitual rusher, do-all-the-things type of gal, etc., but this practice has helped me to make time for rest, and to slow down and enjoy the quiet moments in life as well. It is also a lovely way to simply just relax and practice “doing nothing.” I say that in quotes because while this style isn't super flashy or maybe looks like much isn't happening, there are certainly benefits to quite literally doing nothing. Rather than emphasizing stretching or strengthening, this practice emphasizes openness and comfortability. It feels so refreshing; my mind often feels more settled after I teach and/or practice this style as well.
4. Why do you think students should practice this style?
I think students should practice Restorative yoga because it provides purposeful rest. For many of us, slowing down, resting, being in the quiet/open awareness is really difficult. Restorative yoga is the art of deliberately resting. It is a beautiful and effective way to slow down the nervous system, cultivate patience, and learn how to support the body, breath, and mind via props. It is a cozy, chill, and comfortable practice. Currently, our Restorative class is Online via Zoom on Sunday evenings from 5:15-6:30pm, come and rest with us!
In conversation with Lindsay:
1. How would you describe this style of class?
Restorative yoga is extremely thoughtful on the set up of the poses usually requiring lots of props including an eye pillow, bolster, straps, blocks, blankets, chair, and whatever brings you COMFORT. The poses are held for longer periods of time which help to create a deeper stillness, balance, and acceptance of what is.
2. Why do you practice this style?
Restorative is my bubble bath and go to for self-love. It helps me to balance my mind/body/spirit. I also enjoying using the props in new configurations to set up poses to nourish my body. It's a gift that Restorative is offered on Sunday evenings to end the weekend.