With the holidays often comes an unexpected package – stress. An extra busy schedule and increased social engagements can be deliciously stimulating, though it can also deplete your down-time and let stress creep in at the very moment you’d most like to be at ease with family and friends. What better time to give yourself the gift of self-care with a Restorative Yoga session?

Restorative Yoga is the ultimate practice to sooth your nervous system, slow your heart rate, and calm your mind. Using a sequence of special poses supported by props, you are transported to a place of deep and deeper relaxation. In 8-10 minute increments, your body’s parasympathetic system kicks in, offering a chance to recover from the fatigue that comes with chronically revved-up adrenal hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.

While the body might appear still, a flood of activity is taking place inside. Up goes the activation of the neurotransmitter serotonin, influencing improved mood and sleep. Oxytocin gets a boost as well, which reduces anxiety and increases happiness. Sounds pretty great, right? Oh yes, and let’s not forget that we can trim down while relaxing. A study by National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that restorative yoga burns subcutaneous fat.*

During this season of “doing”, don’t forget the importance of simply “being.” Join us to rest and rejuvenate with Restorative Yoga.

*[http://www.ajmc.com/journals/evidence-based-diabetes-management/2013/2013-1-Vol19-sp7/Restorative-Yoga-Better-Than-Stretching-for-Trimming-Subcutaneous-Fat-in-Overweight-Women]