This blog was written by Carina Terra – yoga teacher at Spira Power Yoga
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The general trend in modern-day yoga is toward more athletic styles. These dynamic styles are a very powerful antidote against the harmful effects of living a sedentary life. Personally, I can’t imagine my life without Vinyasa. Both my body and my mind get cranky really fast if I slack off and neglect my regular practice. However, as much as I love and need my Vinyasa, I also know that yoga is all about balancing opposites: in and out, up and down, front and back, active and passive, movement and stillness… In short, it is interplay between YIN and YANG energies. The athletic styles of yoga that are a cure to our sedentary habits are primarily Yang in nature. As such, they constitute only half of the yoga equation. The other half is comprised of yoga practices that are more Yin in nature, such as Restorative Yoga, Yin Yoga, and Yoga Nidra.
Restorative Yoga leads us toward a more recuperative experience, and has the amazing capacity to minimize the physical & mental symptoms that are related to the stress caused by the frantic speed of our modern way of living. However, despite its amazing benefits, this style is usually overshadowed by the higher visibility and popularity of the Yang styles. It is not uncommon for yogis to be unwilling to give Restorative a try based on the preconceived notion that, if the practice doesn’t involve sweating profusely, then there are no benefits to be gained. These assumptions keep a lot of students from experiencing a deeper state of relaxation that promotes a reboot of the mind-body operating system.
We all need more restorative activities in our lives! I invite you to join Spira Power Yoga for our upcoming Restorative Yoga Workshop. You will develop a better understanding and appreciation for this introspective and healing practice if you give it a try. This course is for students of all levels, not just yoga teachers. I’m looking forward to sharing the hidden treasures of this amazing practice with you.
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We also offer an extended Restorative Yoga Workshop or Restorative Yoga Teacher Training