Physiologically during restorative yoga the mind and consciousness move down the continuum of the autonomic nervous system towards the parasympathetic end and the relaxation response is triggered. This is in contrast to the sympathetic end which triggers the fight/flight or stress response. This is made possible by feeling supported with the props for extended periods of time in comfort and stillness and by using diaphragmatic breathing.
In the relaxation response the body’s heart rate slows down, blood pressure is lowered and immune function is enhanced as well as a deepening regulation of respiration.
A deeper space is opened for healing and regeneration to occur through the soothing of the nervous system. The relaxation response can slow down thoughts and allow a release of muscles in the body. It can regulate various physiological systems such as immunity, digestion, elimination, endocrine-fertility and vital functions. As well as providing an antidote to the stress response, it interferes with the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline which contribute to mental and physical stress. Also oxygen consumption along with blood sugar, sweating, respiratory rate, blood pressure and heart rate all slow down and synchronize.
Restorative yoga is particularly well-suited during pregnancy and in post natal care for mothers as well as for individuals with back pain or injury rehabilitation, due to the fact that it does not involve any complex or intimidating physical poses and is fully supportive. Muscles when released can relax to allow space for healing. For those in need of a sense of stillness, safety/comfort it can facilitate a change in pace and also allow the release of any emotional and trauma based feelings held in the body.
Many activities are said to be relaxing but they may not be actually activating the relaxation response. Watching tv, listening to music, running, dynamic active yoga or reading a book are still stimulating to various degrees. Reading a book is closer to the parasympathetic end of the nervous system continuum than running or watching tv for example. Some of these activities are useful however they do not induce true relaxation. Different biochemical and physiological changes occur while relaxing watching tv or using a mobile phone to practising restorative yoga.
The relaxation response is a different state just as sleep state is also different to relaxation. Restorative yoga enables the body to rest with the support of the props and the right restorative yoga conditions brought about in my classes. As relaxation promotes parasympathetic dominance over sympathetic nervous system dominance, a space is opened up for healing, repair, growth and a re-setting of one´s pace to take place. In a stimulating world where we often live a lifestyle that is overly consumed with technology and where work is often set to a faster pace than what is natural, restorative yoga can help to access a pace that is far more suited to leading a balanced and healthy life.