Do you want to reverse the aging process and preserve your youthfulness? If so, then you should try practicing restorative yoga poses. Restorative yoga is a type of yoga that is focused on relaxation and restoration. It is perfect for people who are looking to de-stress and unwind. This yoga practice can help slow the aging process by promoting cell regeneration and preserving muscle tissue. It also helps to improve circulation and increase flexibility. Here are the best restorative yoga poses that you can practice to slow aging and preserve your youthfulness:
Supported Child’s Pose
Yoga is a great way to relax and de-stress, which can help slow the aging process. This supported child’s pose is perfect for beginners looking to try restorative yoga for the first time. It is a gentle and relaxing pose that helps to stretch the back and hips while promoting deep breathing.
To do this pose:
- Start sitting on your heels with your knees bent and your back straight.
- Slowly lean forward and rest your forehead on a block or blanket.
- Reach your arms out before you and let your body relax into the pose.
- Hold for at least five minutes.
It will help you to open the hips, stretch the back and lengthen the spine. As we age, we need more support, so don’t forget to make the floor extra cushioned with thick area rugs or a yoga mat.
Extended Triangle Pose
This pose improves balance and flexibility while strengthening the legs. It helps to stretch the hamstrings, groin, calves, and hips while toning the abdominal muscles. The triangle pose also helps improve digestion and relieve stress and anxiety. To do the pose:
- Start standing with your feet about hip-width apart.
- Step your right foot back and place it at a 45-degree angle.
- Raise the arms to the sides, so they are parallel to the ground and bend forward at the waist, placing your right hand on your ankle and your left hand on the ground.
- Look up towards the ceiling and hold the pose for a few seconds.
This pose is great for improving flexibility and toning the muscles.
Warrior II Pose
The next pose is the warrior II pose. This pose helps to improve balance and strengthens the legs, hips, and core muscles. To do the warrior II pose, start by standing with your feet about hip-width apart. The warrior II pose is great for those looking to improve their balance and strengthen their legs, hips, and core muscles.
To do the warrior II pose:
- Start by standing straight and with the feet hip-width apart.
- Step your right foot back and place it at a 45-degree angle.
- Raise your arms to the side to parallel the ground.
- Bend your right knee and turn your head to look over your right shoulder.
- Hold this pose for about 30 seconds before repeating it on the other side.
Warrior III Pose
The warrior III pose is an excellent way to improve balance and coordination while strengthening the legs, back, and shoulders. It also helps to improve your posture.
To do the warrior III pose:
- Start by standing on one leg with your arms at your sides.
- Raise your left leg behind you and bend forward at the waist.
- Raise both of your arms parallel to the ground and keep them in line with your shoulders.
- Hold this pose for about 30 seconds before repeating it on the other side.
Warrior III is an extension of warrior I.
Supported Bridge Pose
This supported bridge pose is another great option for beginners. It also improves your posture and alignment while also strengthening your back. To do this pose:
- Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
- Place a block underneath your lower back for support.
- Slowly lift your hips off the ground and hold the position for about 30 seconds.
A bridge poses to improve your flexibility and range of motion. As it requires more knee and ankle support, ensure your yoga spot is extra cushioned with large area rugs and a yoga mat. It will protect your knees, hips, and back from any impact.
Pigeon Pose
Pigeon pose stretches your hips, thighs, and groin. It also relieves lower back pain. It can be performed by coming into a low lunge position with your front knee at a 90-degree angle and your back leg extended behind you. Then, place your hands on the ground on either side of your front leg and slowly lower your hips toward the ground. Hold the position for a minute, then repeat on the other side. The pose can also be done with your back leg bent and your front leg extended in front of you for a deeper stretch.
Fish Pose
Fish pose is a great way to open up the chest and shoulders and stretch the front of the neck. It can be performed by lying on your back with your legs extended in front of you and your arms at your sides. It is a very relaxing pose and can be held for up to five minutes. It also helps to relieve stress and anxiety.
To perform the pose, lie on your back with your legs extended in front of you and your arms at your sides. Allow your head to fall back and rest on the ground. If comfortable, you can place a pillow under your head for support. You should feel a gentle stretch in the front of your neck and shoulders. Hold the position for up to five minutes.
King Pigeon Pose
The King pigeon pose is an advanced version of the pigeon pose. It opens up the front of the body and stretches the muscles and connective tissues around the hips, thighs, and groin. It can be performed by coming into a low lunge position and bringing your front leg forward, so your knee is stacked on top of your ankle. Your back leg must be straight, with your foot pointing toward the sky. Place your hands on the ground before you and slowly lower your chest. Hold the position for up to five minutes. Though it’s an advanced pose, king pigeon is a restorative yoga pose that can help to slow the aging process.
Supported Reclined Butterfly
The supported reclined butterfly is a restorative yoga pose that can help open up the hips and groin while stretching the thigh muscles. It’s a great pose for those new to yoga or looking for a gentle way to slow the aging process. To perform this pose, you’ll need two blocks and a strap. Place the blocks under your knees and the strap around your ankles. Lie back on your mat and allow your knees to fall open. Hold the position for up to five minutes.
This pose is perfect for bedtime or anytime you need to wind down and relax. The supported reclined butterfly can help to lengthen the spine, open up the hips, and release tension from the lower body.
Summing Up!
While the jury is still out on whether or not yoga can actually slow down the aging process, what we do know for sure is that practicing yoga has a plethora of other benefits – like reducing stress and improving flexibility. So why not give it a try? Not only could you see some anti-aging benefits, but you’ll likely feel better in every way. If you’re looking for a comfortable place to practice, check out RugKnots. We carry high-quality rugs that make your studio feel extra cozy and welcoming.
