Why Rest?

Rest is so essential for our mental and physical well-being, yet many of us don't get enough.

We can sometimes think of resting as 'doing nothing', but it's quite the opposite.

When we offer ourselves rest, we give our body and mind time to recalibrate and replenish.

We shift into what is sometimes known as a state of ‘rest & digest’ . Here systems that support our long-term health and wellbeing work more optimally (e.g. our digestion, our immune system, our breath and circulatory systems).

More than anything, we know intuitively that when we are more rested we meet the world with greater calmness, perspective and clarity.

So doing ‘nothing’ really is doing something important.

What is Restorative Yoga?

Restorative Yoga is a beautiful practice that supports deep rest.

It is a still form of yoga in which we use props (bolsters, blocks, bricks, blankets) so that the body is comfortably supported in poses for extended periods of time (5-30 minutes).

Rather than aiming for ‘stretch’ we reach into support, creating conditions that encourage the nervous system to calm, including:

• stillness

• quietness

• darkness (or low lighting)

• comfort

• warmth

• weight (e.g. blankets, eye pillows, hand pillows etc).

About Rest & Reset Sessions

Monthly Rest & Reset sessions offer space to soak up an extended Restorative Yoga practice.

Each session closes with a Yoga Nidra. This is a guided meditation that we take lying down (like a guided relaxation).

The ARC has all the props that you need to practice, so just bring yourself and clothing that you feel comfortable and warm in.

No experience of yoga is necessary.

Venue / Prices

The ARC is a beautiful community space and yoga studio based in Islington.

Places are £25. Concessionary places are available. Please contact the ARC for more information.

Please note that this workshop is held one Friday evening per month. Do check the ARC’s website for future dates.