Lives of most of the Americans are anything but calm. Our schedules are crazy and so are our lives. We try to achieve and overachieve; we work and overwork, and often don’t even notice how physically and emotionally drained we are. Until we get sick of course.

First of all, we need to try and change our habits. We need to realize that we don’t live to work, but we work to live. We need to take time for ourselves. This is not a luxury, this is a necessity. One of the most beneficial way to spend you free time, whether it is 10 minutes or an hour, is restorative yoga.

Restorative yoga is often described as a conscious body and mind relaxation practice. The poses in restorative yoga nurture your body, calm your mind and nervous system and allow relieving stress.

Restorative yoga is deeply relaxing. The poses are usually held without muscle tension for longer periods of time. It differs from regular exercising, because it requires a minimal metabolic demand, so you build your energy instead of using up your energy.

Props and blankets are usually used in restorative yoga. Props are used to provide a supportive environment to encourage relaxation. The spine is flexed in all directions with gentle twists and back and forward bends. Your body relaxes, opens and releases the tension along with the toxins that your body doesn’t need.

I am not going to bore you with restorative yoga pose descriptions. The best way to learn about it is to go try it yourself. A number of yoga teachers offer complimentary lessons, so check your local newspapers and jump right in.

Try not to overwork; try to live happier simpler life. Be gentle to your body and mind. If you do get stressed, don’t immediately rush for the pills to calm you down. Try natural methods first. Do yoga, spend more time outside, revise your diet. Your body will help you release the tension and get rid of your stress. You just need give it a chance.