Space to Breathe have been running a pilot of free, in-person Restorative Yoga classes as part of our work with Positive Activities and South Yorkshire Housing Association.
The classes, called Relearning Rest, have been open to women struggling with sleep and relaxation or mental health issues. We are happy to say the pilot has been a wonderful success and we are now planning further blocks of classes to run throughout 2024 as well as starting a men's class too.
But don't just take our word for it - here is some feedback form one of our participants:
Before these classes I had perhaps only 6 or so nights in the last 2 years when I had slept for more than 4 hours without waking. After the first session I slept for 7 hours straight and after 5 weeks on the course I had at least 7 hours continuous sleep for 6 nights in a row.
The difference in my general wellbeing and anxiety is huge (as a result of attending). I can cope with challenges and setbacks without having panic attacks. Negative thoughts now quickly disappear – prior to the classes they would control my whole day.
So what have we been doing?
Each class is taught by Fran Saint, a registered yoga teacher passionate about making yoga accessible to those of us with anxiety & trauma backgrounds. Designed to help you rediscover your own ability to deeply relax & restore, the focus in these classes is on winding down, not working out! The invitation is to learn gentle breathing techniques, find stability and ease in our bodies, allow the mind to let go of thought and 'doing' and to feel safe and comfortable in ourselves while we practice. We use lots of props like bolsters, blankets and cushions to build our own individual 'nests' which are all provided and take the experience of rest to another level.
Relaxation can be difficult for those of us who live with chronic stress, mental health difficulties or who have experienced trauma. However with intention and assistance this deeply healing state, our natural inner antidote to stress and ‘fight or flight’, can be re-learnt just like any skill we may be out of practice in. See The Relaxation Response and Yoga - Yoga for Times of Change for a great blog post with lots of links to take a deeper dive if you are interested!
When asked if attending has impacted any goals or aspirations for the future, one of our participants answered:
Absolutely. I feel much stronger and resolute to improve my life for myself and my children. I’m also determined to ensure I take a bit of time for myself every few days – even if it’s just to lay on the floor for 5 minutes.(!)
If Relearning Rest classes sound like something you would like to try out, why not pop Fran an email at fran@spacetobreatheuk.com to register your interest and be added to our email list to hear about the next block of free classes.