Strengthen & Stretch: Restorative Yoga Poses to Enhance Your Practice

Restorative yoga focuses on relaxing the body in restful poses to achieve physical, mental, and emotional relaxation. Incorporating both strengthening and stretching elements into your restorative practice can enhance its benefits and help you find a deeper sense of balance and well-being. Here are some restorative poses that combine strength and flexibility:

1. Supported Bridge Pose

Begin by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips and place a yoga block or bolster under your sacrum for support. This pose helps strengthen the legs and open the chest and shoulders while gently stretching the spine.

2. Extended Puppy Pose

Start on all fours with your hips aligned over your knees. Walk your hands forward and lower your chest towards the mat while keeping your hips high. This pose helps strengthen the arms and shoulders while stretching the spine and opening the chest.

3. Reclining Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose

Lie on your back with legs extended. Lift one leg towards the ceiling, holding the big toe with your hand. Keep the other leg extended on the mat. This pose strengthens the core, improves balance, and stretches the hamstrings and hips.

Integrating these strengthening and stretching restorative poses into your yoga practice can help you cultivate a greater sense of stability, flexibility, and relaxation. Remember to listen to your body and breathe deeply as you move through each pose. Enjoy the journey to a more balanced and harmonious practice!