RESTORE/RE-SNORE

by Wendy Yang Clark

Last Tuesday evening, around 8:45, I woke myself with a giant snort. I had fallen into such a deep yogic sleep that I was momentarily discombobulated and completely surprised to find myself laying on the floor of the studio, supported by bolsters and covered in blankets, lavender eye pillow sliding off of my face. Restorative yoga instructor Emma’s soothing voice and guided meditation had put me into a wonderfully sleepy trance that my snore so rudely interrupted. 

A restorative practice has been a game-changer for me. As a business owner and a parent, my days are filled with chaos and constant movement.

My email inbox is overflowing and I haven’t even looked at the real mail (you know, the paper mail that comes in envelopes and contains very important bills and notifications?) in weeks. My child wakes up clammy with a weird fever that persists for days, my to-do list is never-ending, and I’m trying my best to be a supportive friend and wife, which means not leaving text messages/voicemails/emails hanging, and finding time to put away endless piles of laundry. Amidst all this, I often find myself needing a moment to breathe. 

Restorative gives me the much-needed opportunity to slow down and reconnect with myself. It’s my escape, my reset button. Even if it’s just for an hour, it’s a chance to recharge and find my center. It reminds me that self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Put on your own oxygen mask first, right?  That way you’re alive to help your kid/spouse/parents/pets/co-workers put on theirs.

Finding Stillness in a Hectic World

In our fast-paced lives, finding moments of stillness can be incredibly challenging. We are constantly on the go, juggling work, family, and personal commitments. It’s no wonder so many of us feel overwhelmed and burnt out. This is where Restorative Yoga comes in as a gentle and profound practice that allows us to slow down, breathe, and truly relax.

Restorative Yoga is all about deep relaxation. Unlike more vigorous styles, it involves holding poses for extended periods, often with the support of props like bolsters, blankets, and blocks. This support allows the body to fully release and let go, promoting a sense of deep peace and relaxation.

Physical Benefits:
Restorative Yoga helps to relax the muscles, reduce tension, and improve flexibility. By holding poses for longer periods, the body can release deeply held stress and tension, which can improve overall physical well-being. This practice is also fantastic for the nervous system, promoting a state of rest and digest, which can help to lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

Mental Benefits:
One of the most significant benefits of Restorative Yoga is its ability to calm the mind. In our busy lives, our minds are often cluttered with thoughts, worries, and to-do lists. Restorative Yoga provides a space to clear this mental clutter, promoting a state of mental clarity and calm. It encourages mindfulness and present-moment awareness, which can help to reduce anxiety and stress.

Emotional Benefits:
Emotionally, Restorative offers a safe space to process and release emotions. The practice encourages introspection and self-awareness, allowing practitioners to connect with their inner selves. This can lead to emotional healing and a greater sense of emotional balance.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Restorative Yoga is that it’s accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a complete beginner, this practice meets you where you are. It’s gentle, nurturing, and incredibly healing.

At The Pearl, we are committed to offering classes that cater to the diverse needs of our community. Our Restorative Yoga classes are designed to provide a tranquil and supportive environment where you can experience the full benefits of this incredible practice. Our instructors guide you through each pose, ensuring that you feel comfortable and supported throughout the class.

If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of Restorative Yoga, I highly encourage you to give it a try. It’s a practice that offers profound benefits and can truly transform your approach to stress and relaxation.

I look forward to seeing you on the mat, finding stillness and peace together.  And please forgive me if I snore 😴

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We offer Candlelight Restorative on Tuesdays at 8pm with Emma and Restorative on Thursdays at 5:30pm with Dee.