The mind can relax for a longer period of time in restorative yoga due to the supportive props compared to other types of yoga.
Yoga Nidra techniques are used at times during the class. This is a body scan which is a method of guided mindfulness in order to become present in the physical body. This can also further trigger the relaxation response.
A diaphragmatic breathing technique is used also for energizing and healing the mind body connection. Research is very clear that breathing exercises (e.g diaphragmatic/cellular breathing) can enhance parasympathetic and decrease sympathetic nervous activity, improve respiratory, cardiovascular function and decrease the effects of stress; increase cellular balance and physical and mental health (Pal, Velkumary, and Madanmohan, 2004).
Restorative yoga can cultivate a greater awareness of the mind containing thoughts and self-talk via attention to the breath within the poses. In this safe place of rest, our own architecture of thoughts and wiring of emotional reactions and patterns are mindfully brought to our attention without judgement, so that they can be viewed differently with more compassion.
Becoming still in a pose and staying there for a while fully supported, creates gaps that are rare in an overly stimulating world. Keeping the gaps empty creates the space for anything that wants to come up to the surface. It also creates space for a choice in how we respond rather than react. This space is held in class for feelings of for example-anxiety or acceptance, boredom or excitement, striving or surrender, anger or joy to arise and to be welcomed and observed compassionately. With an on-the -go life, many feelings and emotions can be suppressed and then stored in the body.
Also feelings that cannot be handled and processed may result in trauma being trapped in the body. However in restorative yoga time and space is given to allow for these feelings, thoughts and emotions to be allowed out from their shadows. This release can benefit the mind body connection hugely.
Most notably, for trauma survivors who can feel stripped of their power over their bodies, this practice empowers the practitioner to play the primary role in their own healing process.
The mind and body are deeply interconnected. Restorative yoga allows the mind and body to relax. The nature of the body is to heal itself but we just need to move out of the way to allow it to do so.
Restorative yoga is not about doing. It is not about achieving, competing, comparing or judging. It is not about changing. It is about simply observing one’s body and mind as it is. This observation is a soft power which can enable a transformation on the conscious and physiological level to take place through awareness.
There is no conforming or following of another in restorative yoga whether teacher or student, each individual has to embark on their own journey within themselves- within their body and their minds. The freedom from an unhelpful mind connection to the body can transform the body and allow for healing to take place so that true potential can be pursued by the restorative yoga practitioner.
Practising observation of our bodies in a non-judgemental way in restorative yoga whilst tuning in to our limits and comfort needs, encourages and nurtures a greater awareness and acceptance of the body. We are not correcting our bodies in restorative yoga but deeply accepting our bodies and working with what we have. This is an act and process of self-love which is essentially what restorative yoga provides. This practice can invite a process of integration and transformation of both the body and of the mind over time.