This type of yoga class is usually a crowd favorite, if you can allow yourself to be immersed in stillness and quietness. Restorative yoga is just that, a yoga class which restores you. It encourages deep relaxation and stress release. It is a restful yoga practice usually supported by several different kinds of props. Bolsters, blocks, blankets, sandbags, eye masks… just to name a few.

Throughout this type of yoga class, you can expect to be led through a series of poses, maybe 6-8 poses, held anytime between 5 to 15 minutes, all of which will be fully supported by the props. It is entirely possible to have a class using only blocks, or minimal props, but the more pillows you have to support space, the better. And many teachers often incorprorate a warm-up in the beginning and aromatherapy or pranayama during your practice. Then once you’re holding your poses, your body is coaxed into parasympathetic mode, away from stressful responses and fight-or-flight.

It’s totally OK if you fall asleep, it happens. It means your body needed it!