Equipment for restorative
Every four or five weeks we come to the point in our cycle when it’s time for a restorative class.
Most people love this time, as the class is less strenuous, with a focus on being quiet, both in the body and (hopefully) in the mind.
These classes are best enjoyed with a few additional props, which we can’t provide on a shared basis because of current circumstances.
Dwi Pada Viparita Dandasana over crossed bolsters at dawn
Initial poses in a restorative class
For the first part of the class, we do familiar poses, but in a quieter way.
The props that you normally bring (at least a belt and a couple of blocks) will be fine for this part of the class.
Ardha Chandrasana (half moon pose) using the wall and a block for support
Supine poses in the class
As the restorative session continues, we move to poses which allow us to be a little quieter in our minds, and which help us focus on the breath.
Viparita Karani (legs up the wall pose) using a bolster and two blankets (on a warm summer morning)
íf you don’t have yoga blankets or a bolster in the kit you normally take to class, it might be good to think about bringing at least a couple of blankets which you can use to help support yourself and make you more comfortable during the latter part of a restorative class.
It’s also important to stay warm, so a warm top and socks will be a good idea too in the winter time.
Towards the end of the class, we spend a little time on some pranayama (breath control). We usually do this in a supine position, with a blanket supporting the spine and a second blanket supporting the head. This is the time when you will be most glad that you brought a couple of extra blankets to the class.
Typical back and head support for supine Pranayama (breath control)