Following our recent post about Yin Yoga, let’s delve deeper into the distinctions between Yin Yoga and Restorative Yoga, and explore what you can expect in each class. We’ve noticed that many people at our studio often confuse these two styles, so let’s clarify the differences.
Restorative Yoga: Deep Relaxation and Healing
Restorative Yoga, on the other hand, is all about relaxation and recovery. It uses props like bolsters, blankets, and blocks to support the body in passive poses. The aim is to completely relax, allowing the nervous system to shift into a state of rest and digest, which promotes healing and reduces stress.
What to Expect in a Restorative Yoga Class at Hello Studio:
Led by Estella Alvares who is a very caring and supportive teacher who has received extensive training to deepen her knowledge of Restorative Yoga.
Supported Poses: Props are used extensively to support your body in comfortable positions, allowing you to relax completely without any effort.
Extended Time in Poses: Similar to Yin Yoga, poses are held for extended periods, but the emphasis is on comfort and relaxation rather than stretching.
Few Poses: A class may include only a handful of poses, as the goal is to spend a significant amount of time in each one to fully relax.
Calm Environment: Expect a soothing atmosphere with dim lighting, and a silent space to facilitate deep relaxation.
Restorative Yoga is ideal for reducing stress, aiding recovery from illness or injury, and promoting overall well-being.
"It was amazing! Restorative yoga was so relaxing and peaceful ✨ Estella was very professional and so kind with loving energy. I will definitely come back 🙏🏼 "
Yin Yoga: Deep Stretching and Stillness
Yin Yoga targets the deep connective tissues, such as ligaments, joints, and fascia, rather than the muscles. It’s a slower-paced style where poses are held for longer periods, typically one to five minutes. This extended hold allows the body to relax into the pose and stretch the connective tissues.
What to Expect in a Yin Yoga Class at Hello Studio:
Led by Anna Fahy, a compassionate, supportive and experienced instructor who has mastered the art of slow, gentle-paced yoga.
Relaxing Holds: Embrace the opportunity to settle into poses for several minutes. These extended holds allow you to truly relax and sink deeper into the stretch, providing a soothing and meditative experience.
Minimal Movement: Yin Yoga is about finding stillness. Once you’re in a pose, you stay there, allowing your body to gradually open up. This can be a meditative experience, promoting a sense of calm and focus.
Focus on Connective Tissues: You’ll primarily work on the areas around the hips, pelvis, and lower spine. These are the regions where the body tends to be less flexible, and Yin Yoga helps to gently increase that flexibility.
Props and Support: While Yin Yoga involves deep stretching, props such as blocks and bolsters are often used to support the body and ensure comfort in the poses. We don't have blankets at the studio, so if you feel you need one, don't forget to bring your own.
Breath Awareness: Breathing mindfully is a crucial aspect of Yin Yoga. Instructors at Hello Studio will guide you to focus on your breath to help deepen the stretches and maintain relaxation.
Meditative Approach: The long holds provide an opportunity to practise mindfulness and meditation, making Yin Yoga as much about the mind as it is about the body. This aspect helps in reducing stress and improving mental clarity.
Quiet Environment: Expect a serene and quiet atmosphere, often with soft music to enhance your concentration and gives you anchor to feel present and find inner peace.
Yin Yoga at the Hello Studio is particularly beneficial for increasing flexibility, improving joint mobility, and cultivating a sense of inner calm. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi, our classes are designed to help you find balance and relaxation in your practice.
Our Yin yoga with Anna has received 5 Stars on Class pass!
Choosing the Right Class for You
To resume the differences between Restorative Yoga vs Yin Yoga: Both Yin Yoga and Restorative Yoga offer profound benefits, but they cater to different needs. If you’re looking to enhance flexibility and work on the deeper connective tissues, Yin Yoga might be your best bet. If you’re in need of deep relaxation and stress relief, Restorative Yoga is the way to go.
Regardless of which style you choose, both Yin and Restorative Yoga provide a welcome respite from the fast pace of modern life, helping you to cultivate a sense of inner peace and physical well-being.
Hello Studio , your holistic club
330 Hornsey road
N7 7HE