The following are four of my favorite restorative yoga poses. These are featured in many offerings and are nourishing for the mind, body and spirit.

Supported Savasana

I love laying on the floor with a bolster under my knees. Try this simple and supported version of Savasana when you need some moments to rest.

To come into this pose, lie down on your back with your knees supported by a bolster horizontally.

Supported Balasana (Child’s Pose)

While this pose may not be restful for all, I like assuming this form.

To come into this pose, place a bolster or pillow in front of you. Bend your knees and bring the big toes together to touch if available. Begin to lean over onto the bolster and surrender the heart onto the prop. Bring the seat close to the feet and relax here. For extra comfort, pad the calves with a blanket to give space to the knees. Bring your arms overhead (pictured) or if this is uncomfortable for the shoulders then point the hands back toward your feet.

Take a few minutes with your head turned to one side and then switch.

Supported Supta Baddha Konasana

You’ll experience this pose in nearly every restorative session that I offer. I love the openness it makes me feel. I will often practice loving kindness (metta) meditation in this posture as well.

To come into this pose bring your feet together and sit up tall. Use a block, pillow or blanket under each knee so you feel supported. Place your bolster behind you the long way and after gathering length in the spine lean back against the bolster. Let your arms broaden out to each side and relax into this posture. Stay here and deeply breathe for five minutes to experience a shift in your awareness.

Stonehenge

While I don’t know the Sanskrit for it, I absolutely love this pose. Stonehenge is helpful for low back pain if you ever deal with that (which I hope you don’t).

To come into this posture place 2 blocks next to each other on the highest height. Bring your bolster over top. Let your calves rest on top of your props while you recline back and rest your torso. Allow yourself to fully release into the support of the props. 

Photo Credit: Auraginal Photography (@auraginal_photography)