The practice of yoga allows an individual to connect their body with their mind and spirit. Through deep breathing and specific poses, yoga allows an individual to focus, to center themselves and to feel better spiritually, mentally and physically. Yin yoga is a slow-paced form of yoga that requires concentration and patience, and yin restorative yoga is a form of practice that is specifically geared toward those who are healing or recovering.
What is Yin Restorative Yoga?
Yin restorative yoga is a niche yoga practice that focuses on total body healing. Compared to other types of yoga practices, yin restorative yoga focuses more on poses that are held for a longer period of time, and that require deep, concentrated breathing. Generally, yin restorative yoga is considered to be a gentle practice that is appealing to people of all skill levels, from novice to advanced yogis. It is a form of practice that not only focuses on inner healing and awareness but also physical healing. Those who have been injured, who are recovering from surgery, or who are battling a chronic illness can look to yin restorative yoga as a holistic treatment option. It is best to practice this type of yoga with an instructor who is experienced and who specializes in this particular niche.
The Benefits of Yin Restorative Yoga
Yin restorative yoga offers many benefits to those who practice it, including:
- Improved mindfulness — The deep breathing techniques in yin restorative yoga coincide with the poses that are required as part of this practice, allowing the individual practicing to be more aware and mindful of their current mental state.
- Physical healing — The poses that are part of yin restorative yoga aim to promote deep healing within the joints and connective tissues of the body. Over time, regular practice of yin restorative yoga will help bring the body to an optimum state of health.
- Improved flexibility — As the muscles and joints become accustomed to the poses associated with yin restorative yoga practice, they will become more flexible and comfortable. This can speed up the healing process, while simultaneously increasing the comfort and abilities of the healing individual.
- Increased sense of relaxation — Yin restorative yoga is designed to be a gentle, soothing practice. Those who attend yin restorative yoga classes or regularly practice it at home find that they feel more at ease and relaxed throughout their daily lives.
Where to Practice Yin Restorative Yoga
Those who are new to yin restorative yoga will likely want to begin their practice with an instructor who specializes in this niche practice. In most cases, local yoga studios will offer yin restorative yoga classes. It is important for the healing individual to contact the yoga studio in advance in order to learn more about the types of classes that are available, and which options would be best for them. Most yin restorative yoga classes are aimed at a general group, and will not customize the course to address the specific health needs of an individual. It is recommended that those who are healing from an ailment, injury or surgery work closely with their physician in order to determine their own capabilities and the best course of treatment moving forward. In all likelihood, a yin restorative yoga class with a qualified instructor will offer many benefits.
Who Should Practice Yin Restorative Yoga?
Yin restorative yoga is a type of practice aimed specifically at those who are healing physically. Many people benefit from this type of practice, including:
- Those who have been injured. Whether they have suffered an injury as a result of a car accident, or during a sporting event, they likely will be able to heal faster by practicing yin restorative yoga.
- Those who are suffering from chronic pain, such as back pain or joint pain.
- Those who are battling a chronic illness, such as cancer.
- Those who are recovering from a surgery, such as a back surgery, shoulder surgery, leg surgery or hip surgery.
- Those who are recovering from childbirth.
Ultimately, yin restorative yoga is ideal for anyone who is need of healing. Individual instructors can provide tips and advice for the best poses for specific ailments.
While all forms of yoga practice are designed to heal and restore the body in some way, it is yin restorative yoga that is geared toward individuals who are healing from a physical illness or injury. It is a beneficial and effective practice that will be helpful for anyone who is trying to heal and move forward with their lives.