Restorative Poses to Promote Relaxation and Rest

Restorative postures are a type of yoga practice that involve gentle, supported poses that promote relaxation and release of tension. Restorative postures can be beneficial for getting back in our body, feeling safe, and cultivating more somatic self-love for several reasons:

1. They promote physical relaxation: Restorative postures allow the body to release tension and relax deeply, promoting a greater sense of physical comfort and ease. Restorative postures can help reduce stress and promote a sense of safety and well-being by promoting physical relaxation.
2. They encourage body awareness: Restorative postures involve holding poses for several minutes at a time, allowing individuals to tune in to their physical sensations and become more aware of their bodies. By developing greater body awareness, individuals can cultivate an acceptance with their physical selves.
3. They support emotional regulation: Restorative postures can be a powerful way to regulate the nervous system and promote emotional regulation. By engaging in these postures, individuals can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
4. They promote self-care: Engaging in restorative postures can be a 

Supportive Posture to Try

Here are a few restorative poses that can help you relax and restore your body:

1. Supported Child’s Pose: Begin on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Place a bolster or pillow lengthwise between your thighs and fold forward, resting your forehead on the bolster or pillow. Stay here for several minutes, focusing on your breath and allowing your body to relax.
2. Supported Bridge Pose: Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Place a block or pillow under your sacrum and rest your arms at your sides. Stay here for several minutes, focusing on your breath and allowing your body to relax.
3. Legs Up the Wall Pose: Lie on your back with your hips close to a wall. Extend your legs up the wall and rest your arms at your sides. Stay here for several minutes, focusing on your breath and allowing your body to relax.
4. Supported Fish Pose: Sit on the ground with your legs extended in front of you. Place a block or pillow behind you and lie back, resting your upper back and head on the block or pillow. Stay here for several minutes, focusing on your breath and allowing your body to relax.
5. Reclined Bound Angle Pose: Lie on your back with your knees bent and the soles of your feet together. Place a block or pillow under your knees for support. Rest your arms at your sides. Stay here for