Restorative yoga makes me feel good
by Moya McGinn Mathews, E-RYT 500, YACEP
The late comedian George Burns, who lived to be 100 years old, famously said, “If you ask what is the single most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding worry, stress and tension. And if you didn’t ask me, I’d still have to say it.”
I want to be happy!
Stress is sometimes unavoidable, worry takes us away from the experience of the present moment, and tension robs us of joy. While I don’t know how old I will live to be, I do know that, every day that I am alive, I want to experience every bit of joy that I possibly can. Restorative yoga is a practice of deep, conscious relaxation, anchored in the present moment, that helps me to be present and happy.
I’m a human being, not a human doing.
I don’t want to or need to be constantly in motion, and a life of hurrying from one activity to the next without pause, rest, or time to digest can create a build up of stress and tension. Instead, I choose to pause and rest and practice compassion for myself.
I value my good health!
I don’t need a degree in health science to know that chronic and/or acute stress and tension are root causes of many lifestyle diseases. Besides relieving muscle tension and general fatigue, some of the measurable benefits of the deep relaxation induced in a restorative yoga practice include
- lower blood pressure
- reduced serum triglycerides and blood sugar levels
- an increase of “good cholesterol”
- more regular digestion and elimination
- better, deeper sleep
- increased fertility
Simply put, restorative yoga makes me feel good.
I like the feeling of being relaxed and at ease. I sleep better and more deeply when my body and mind are free of tension and stress. My relationships improve when I’m happy and well. I’m more compassionate and patient with myself and others. I have increased stamina for my responsibilities and leisure activities. And I believe that I’m worth it.
I teach Restorative Yoga, and train others to teach Restorative Yoga, because I found a valuable practice and I want to share it as widely as possible. I want others to be happy, and healthy, and free.
Save the world, one Savasana at a time
Do you want to join in this mission to change the world, one Savasana at a time? Sign up for the Restorative Yoga Teacher Training at the Yoga Center Retreat! You’ll have an opportunity to restore and renew your own Being, while learning valuable techniques that you can share with others. I hope to see you on your mat (or on your bolster) this September!