Unwind & Restore Yoga with Matt at Blue Lotus Buddhist Temple and Meditation Center – Woodstock, IL

Unwind & Restore: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm Sunday

This 90-minute class is for ALL bodies and abilities. It’s very gentle and deeply restorative.

The first portion of class will be done on the floor, taking the body out of gravity. It consists of slow, small, sliding, gliding, unwinding, deliberate, undulating somatic movements done without force. They are designed to gently open the fascia, release the diaphragm and build mind-body awareness.

This practice is very effective for reducing fatigue while revitalizing the subtle energy body. It’s like a combination of dance, yoga and myofascial release. The goal is not to perform, but to feel and observe.

It’s effective for releasing physical and mental stress. Students often report feeling more open, grounded and embodied. We will slowly work our way to our feet for some stabilizing asana before moving on to rest. The restorative practice focuses on deep relaxation in silence, using props to support the body in gentle, opening poses rather than stretches.

It is designed to encourage stillness while promoting physical healing and downregulating the nervous system.

These practices are deeply therapeutic and complement each other perfectly.