Which yoga practice is characterized by long-held postures for deep relaxation?

Restorative yoga is recognized for its focus on long-held postures that promote deep relaxation and healing. The practice involves using props such as blankets, bolsters, and straps to support the body in poses that are held for extended periods, often anywhere from five to twenty minutes or longer. This allows practitioners to deeply relax, release tension, and facilitate a meditative state. The gentle nature of restorative yoga helps in calming the nervous system and is particularly beneficial for stress relief, recovery from injury, and cultivating a sense of peace.

Other practices like Bikram yoga, Vinyasa yoga, and Ashtanga yoga differ significantly in their approach and pace. Bikram yoga consists of a set series of poses practiced in a heated room, emphasizing strength and stamina rather than relaxation. Vinyasa yoga is dynamic, focusing on the flow of movement from one pose to another, which keeps the heart rate elevated. Ashtanga yoga, while involving a series of set poses, also has a vigorous pace that promotes strength and endurance rather than deep, prolonged relaxation.