Restorative yoga poses are gentle, supported postures held for extended periods — often several minutes each — with the goal of activating the parasympathetic nervous system and promoting deep physical and mental recovery. Unlike active categories, restorative poses require minimal muscular effort; the body is typically supported by the floor, props, or gravity, allowing muscles and connective tissue to release tension passively. Familiar restorative postures include Child's Pose (Balasana), Corpse Pose (Savasana), Happy Baby (Ananda Balasana), Reclined Bound Angle (Supta Baddha Konasana), and Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani). The benefits are wide-ranging: reduced cortisol levels, lower heart rate, relief from chronic tension in the neck, shoulders, and lower back, and improved sleep quality over time. Restorative poses are ideal for anyone managing stress, recovering from injury, or winding down after an intense physical session. They are also an excellent entry point for people new to yoga who may feel intimidated by more demanding postures. Within a broader practice, restorative poses typically close a session, allowing the body to absorb the work done in standing, seated, and backbend sequences.
8 poses in this category