29/11/2025
Sunday 6:00pm Stretch & Restore The Pullenvale Hall
Restorative yoga offers significant benefits for the central nervous system (CNS) primarily by activating the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), which is the body's "rest and digest" mode.
The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, and it works in conjunction with the peripheral nervous system, which includes the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is split into two main branches:
Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS): The "fight, flight, or freeze" response, which is activated by stress and increases heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormones like cortisol.
Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS): The "rest and digest" response, which promotes relaxation, healing, and restoration.
Here's how restorative yoga helps the Central Nervous System (CNS);
Shifts from "Fight or Flight" to "Rest and Digest": Restorative yoga uses supported, passive postures held for extended periods (often with props like bolsters and blankets) to encourage deep relaxation. This conscious rest allows the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS) to become dominant, effectively putting the brakes on the constantly-engaged Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS).
Elicits the Relaxation Response: This is a physiological state that counteracts the effects of stress. Activating it helps to:
- Slow down heart rate.
- Lower blood pressure.
- Slow down respiration.
Reduces Stress Hormones:
By activating the PNS, restorative yoga helps to lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol, which, when chronically elevated, can negatively impact health and CNS function.
Stimulates the Vagus Nerve:
This key nerve is the main component of the PNS. Gentle, sustained pressure in supported poses and emphasis on slow, deep, diaphragmatic breathing (especially lengthening the exhale) directly stimulate the vagus nerve. Strengthening its function is known as improving vagal tone, which allows the body to recover from stress more quickly and maintain internal balance.
Promotes Neuroplasticity: Research suggests that restorative practices may alter the structure and function of brain regions like the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex—areas involved in memory, emotion, and reasoning—leading to enhanced mood and well-being.
Improves Sleep Quality:
By calming the nervous system and reducing mental and physical tension, the practice helps prepare the body for restful sleep.
