Restorative
Yoga
Held up entirely by props
Restorative is not a gentle version of a yoga class; it is a different thing altogether. You will meet perhaps five shapes in an hour, each one built with bolsters and blankets so completely that your body has nothing to hold. Then you stay there, and the nervous system does the rest.
Who this is for
- Anyone running on very little sleep.
- People recovering from illness, injury or surgery.
- Anyone whose week has been louder than they would like.
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Why it works
When a shape is properly supported, the muscles stop bracing. Breathing slows, the heart rate follows and the body drops into the state it repairs in. Ten minutes of that is worth a great deal more than an hour of trying to relax.
What to expect
Dim light, few instructions, long silences. Sophie sets each shape up carefully and then leaves the room alone. Some people sleep. That is fine, and fairly common.
What makes it different
Fully supported
Bolsters, blankets and blocks do all of the work.
Five to ten minutes
Shapes are held long enough for the nervous system to notice.
Nothing to achieve
There is no effort in this class and that is the point.
Giving it the full hour
Come in warm, comfortable clothes and bring extra layers. You will not sweat, and you will get cold if you do not plan for it.
What regulars say
Susannah R.
I spent the first three weeks feeling guilty for doing so little. Then I started sleeping properly for the first time since my daughter was born. Sophie was entirely right and I was entirely wrong.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions
Still have a question?
Send us a message and we'll come back to you within one business day.
Do I need experience to start?
No. Every class is taught with options rather than expectations, and our Fundamentals and Gentle sessions assume no prior practice at all. Tell your teacher it's your first time and they will look after you.
What should I bring to my first class?
Comfortable clothes and a water bottle. Mats, blocks, straps and bolsters are all provided, and there are showers and lockers in the changing rooms.
Can I come without a membership?
Yes. Drop-in classes and pay-as-you-go class packs sit alongside our memberships, so you can practise as often or as rarely as suits you.
How early should I arrive?
Fifteen minutes before your first class, and around five for every class after that. It gives you time to check in, settle and set up your mat without rushing.
Can I pause or cancel my membership?
Pause or cancel anytime with 30 days notice. There are no joining fees and no lock-in contracts, and any unused class credits stay on your account.
Do you teach pregnant or injured students?
We do. Several of our teachers are qualified in pre and postnatal practice and in therapeutic yoga. Let us know before class so your teacher can adapt the session for you.
