Sometimes we are so busy and stressed that, even when we have down time, it’s impossible to switch off.
So, here’s a practice for your Sunday restorative or recovery yoga session. It’s an interpretation of a practice by Linda Sparrowe and Patricia Walden.
Remember though, if you keep ending up depleted at the end of the week, it’s time to balance your lifestyle. Judith Lasater of Relax and Renew fame asks the question, “Do we have the courage to relax?”
Lying over Crossed Bolsters – 5 min.
Back Arch over two X-ed Bolsters
Or, Supta Sukhasana – Lying on bolster with blanket, in cross-leg position, 3min., then, cross legs the other way 3 min.
Adho Mukha Svasana, head supported on blanket, 2 min.
Ardha Chandrasana, 30-60 sec. each side
Ardha Chandrasana
Sirsasana, up to 5 min.
Or, Prasarita Padottanasana – 30-60 sec.
Prasarita Padottanasana
Ustrasana, 15 sec., repeat
Ustrasana
Adho Mukha Svanasana, 30 – 60 sec.
Forward Virasana, 30 – 60 sec.
Supported Sarvangasana, on chair with bolster, 5 min.
Supported Sarvangasana
Halasana, Supported, 5 min.
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, with bolster, blanket and block, 5 – 10 min.
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana
Savasana, 5 – 10 min.
Savasana
As a yoga instructor teaching an active, flowing style of yoga, I would have several students ask me if I could also teach yoga just for relaxation and stress-reduction. Initially, I was a little stumped as to what I could teach that would still provide a tremendous benefit while using very little “exercise” (other than meditation). Then I came across this book. She not only educates her readers about stress, she shows us specific poses to counteract that stress. And she explains clearly what benefit we are receiving from each pose. The “General Restorative Practice” is amazing. You truly do feel relaxed and renewed. She even offers a shorter series for those days when time is too scarce or while traveling. And the series for pregnancy is a God-Send for those expecting! I have just begun using these restorative poses in my classes and my students absolutley love it!
Thanks for your comments, Justine. I agree, students love to be restored through yoga! Cheers, Eve