Revitalize and Rejuvenate: The Importance of Restorative Yoga for Busy Mums

In the busyness of daily life, the role of a mum is nothing short of extraordinary. Juggling numerous responsibilities, from looking after kids to managing household tasks and working, often leaves little time for self-care. In the midst of this whirlwind, the practice of restorative yoga emerges as a sanctuary, offering busy mums not just a moment of relaxation but a holistic rejuvenation of mind, body, and spirit.

Restorative yoga is a gentle and therapeutic style of yoga that focuses on relaxation and rejuvenation. It involves holding a series of passive poses for an extended period, often using props like bolsters, blankets, and blocks to support the body. The aim is to create a deeply relaxing and nurturing experience, allowing the body to release tension, calm the nervous system, and promote overall well-being.

Restorative yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the "rest and digest" system. This response counteracts the "fight or flight" stress response, inducing a state of relaxation. As mums we never get enough sleep, always seem to run on empty and feel tired. Restorative yoga has numerous benefits which can make a huge difference in your mum life and help you slow down and regain that energy back. Here are some key things how a restorative practice can help you transform your wellbeing.

1. Stress Reduction:

   Restorative yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the production of stress hormones. For mums juggling multiple responsibilities which can lead to heightened stress levels with restorative yoga mums can create a calming space for to unwind and release tension.

2. Improved Sleep Quality:

   The practice of restorative yoga encourages relaxation and can contribute to better sleep by easing the nervous system. Quality sleep is often scarce for busy mums. Incorporating restorative yoga into the evening routine can enhance the chances of restful and rejuvenating sleep.

3. Physical Restoration:

   Gentle and supported yoga poses help release tension in muscles, improve flexibility, and promote overall physical well-being. The physical demands of parenting, from carrying children to managing household tasks, can strain the body. Restorative yoga provides a space for physical restoration.

4. Enhanced Emotional Well-being:

   Mindful breathing and meditation in restorative yoga can help regulate emotions and provide emotional balance. Motherhood often comes with a range of emotions. Restorative yoga offers a supportive environment for mums to process and navigate their emotional landscape.

5. Time for Self-Care:

   Restorative yoga is a form of self-care that requires minimal time and equipment. Busy moms often prioritize the needs of others over their own. Restorative practice offers a manageable and effective way for moms to invest in their well-being.

You might wonder how do I practice restorative yoga and how do I make it work for me in my busy schedule? Check out the list below for some easy tips on how to make a start.

• Create a Quiet Space:

  Find a quiet and comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. Dim the lights or use soft lighting to create a calming atmosphere.

•  Gather Props:

  Collect props such as bolsters, blankets, blocks, and pillows that will be used to support your body in various poses. Use props to support your body in each pose. The idea is to feel completely comfortable and relaxed. For example, place a bolster under your knees or use a blanket to support your spine.

•  Choose Comfortable Attire:

  Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy movement and relaxation.

• Set an Intention:

  Before you begin, set a positive intention for your practice. This could be a simple affirmation or a focus on relaxation and self-care.

• Practice Diaphragmatic Breathing:

  Start with a few minutes of diaphragmatic breathing (deep belly breaths). This helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.

• Begin with Gentle Warm-ups:

  Engage in gentle movements or stretches to warm up the body. Focus on areas that may hold tension, such as the neck, shoulders, and hips.

• Restorative Poses:

  Choose restorative poses based on your comfort and the props you have. Common restorative poses include:

-        Supported Child's Pose

-        Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose

-        Supported Reclining Bound Angle Pose

-        Supported Savasana (Corpse Pose)

• Hold Poses for Extended Periods:

  Unlike more active forms of yoga, restorative poses are held for an extended period, typically 5 to 20 minutes. This allows the body to release tension gradually.

• Focus on Breath Awareness:

  Throughout the practice, maintain awareness of your breath. Take slow, deep breaths, allowing the breath to guide you into a deeper state of relaxation.

• Release Tension:

  As you hold each pose, consciously release tension from different parts of your body. Let go of any tightness in the muscles and allow your body to surrender to the support of the props.

• Cultivate Mindfulness:

  Embrace a mindful approach. Pay attention to sensations, thoughts, and emotions without judgment. Cultivate a sense of presence and acceptance.

• Rest in Savasana:

  Finish your practice with Savasana, allowing your body to fully relax on your mat. This is a crucial part of integrating the benefits of the practice.

• Gradual Transitions:

  When you're ready to end your practice, make slow and gentle transitions. Avoid sudden movements to maintain the sense of calm.

• Reflect and Close:

  Take a moment to reflect on your practice. Notice any changes in your body, mind, or emotions. Close your practice with gratitude for the time you've dedicated to self-care.

Remember that restorative yoga is about creating a space for deep relaxation and nurturing your body. Feel free to modify poses and use additional props to suit your comfort. Regular practice can contribute to improved overall well-being and a greater sense of calm in your busy life as a mum. Find a time to practice when it suits you and make it a part of your wellness routine. As mums we are moving around a lot so at the end of the day our body need to restore itself to be able to function. Restorative practice is as important as a high impact workout, but we might not feel we are achieving as much, but in fact we are. Your body is reparing and recovering from your daily activity and this is crucial to your health. Incorporating a restorative practice into your routine is a powerful way to counterbalance the demands of modern life. Whether you're seeking stress relief, physical restoration, or a moment of quiet self-care, restorative yoga offers a gentle and accessible path to overall well-being.