Gentle Yoga Isn’t “Less Than”: The Science of Slow, Soothing Practice
When people think of yoga, they often picture handstands or sweaty power flows. But the truth is, the softer side of yoga—gentle movement, stretching, restorative postures, and meditation—offers deep, evidence-backed benefits that are just as powerful. In fact, for many people, these slower practices are exactly what the body (and mind) need most.
At Yoga Baum, we design classes that meet you where you are—and sometimes, where you are is craving stillness, softness, or recovery.
What Is Gentle Yoga?
Gentle yoga includes slower-paced practices that emphasize breath awareness, long-held stretches, supported postures, and mindful movement. At Yoga Baum, we offer a variety of these classes throughout the week:
Gentle Yoga + Restorative – Mondays & Fridays 9–10am
A blend of floor and standing postures designed so every student can feel good in their body and practice comfortably.
Candlelight Yoga – Mondays 7:30–8:30pm
Easy, gentle movement paired with restorative postures—a lovely bookend to the day.
Restorative Yoga – Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:45–7:30pm
Completely supported postures using props to help you release tension and stress, enter a meditative state, and promote deep nervous system relaxation. Individual attention provided in every class.
Slow Flow + Restorative – Wednesdays 12–1pm, Saturdays 9–10am, Sundays 9–10am
Gentle, feel-good flow with moderate challenge and optional heating postures, ending with a luxurious restorative pose.
Slow Flow – Wednesdays 4:15–5:15pm
A stretchy, feel-good class that moves at an accessible pace. You’ll flow without exhausting yourself, with time to explore and enjoy each posture.
Meditation – Saturdays 8:15–8:45am
Different meditation techniques and breathwork to help students relax and connect.
Sunday Rest + Reset – Sundays 12–1pm
A deeply relaxing mix of gentle stretching, movement, breathwork, meditation, and restorative yoga.
The Science of Slowing Down
Research supports what many yogis have long known: slow, mindful movement and relaxation practices can have powerful effects on the body and mind.
A 2020 review in Frontiers in Psychology found that slow-paced yoga can reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep.
Restorative practices have been associated with reduced pain, stress, and improved mental well-being.
Who Benefits from Gentle Yoga?
In short: everyone. But especially:
People with high stress or burnout
Those recovering from injury or illness
Athletes looking for balance and recovery
Beginners unsure where to start
Anyone tired of the idea that “more is better”
Gentle doesn’t mean pointless—it means purposeful. These classes are deeply nourishing, sustainable, and intelligent.
Come Try a Softer Practice This Week
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stiff, or disconnected, we invite you to try one of our gentle yoga classes. Whether it’s a deep stretch, breathwork, or a candlelit restorative session, your body and mind will thank you.
New students welcome. All levels supported.
