Restorative yoga is beloved for its deep relaxation, passive poses, and ability to soothe both body and mind. But if you’re curious about other gentle yoga styles that provide similar benefits with different approaches, you’re in luck. Whether you’re healing from an injury, managing stress, or simply prefer a slower pace, there are a variety of calming yoga styles available to explore. Here’s a guide to alternative gentle yoga styles you can try if you love restorative yoga.
1. Yin Yoga
Deep Stretch with Stillness
Yin yoga may appear similar to restorative yoga due to its slow pace and long-held poses, but the intention is different. Rather than emphasizing total relaxation, yin yoga targets the deep connective tissues like fascia, ligaments, and joints.
- Poses are typically held for 3–7 minutes
- Helps increase flexibility and joint mobility
- Can be physically intense yet deeply meditative
- Pairs well with more active yoga styles
Best for: Increasing flexibility, improving joint health, and developing patience and mindfulness.
2. Hatha Yoga
Balanced and Foundational
Hatha yoga is one of the most traditional forms of yoga and typically involves a slower-paced sequence of postures, breathing, and meditation. It offers a gentle introduction to movement while cultivating body awareness and breath control.
- Great for beginners or those easing back into movement
- Combines gentle stretches and strengthening
- Helps build a foundational understanding of yoga
Best for: Beginners, older adults, and anyone looking for a slow, balanced yoga experience.
3. Chair Yoga
Accessible and Adaptive
Chair yoga is a wonderfully accessible option for those with limited mobility, balance issues, or chronic pain. It modifies traditional yoga poses to be performed while sitting or using a chair for support.
- Ideal for seniors or people recovering from injury
- Focuses on gentle movement, breath, and posture
- Increases circulation and improves joint function
Best for: People with mobility limitations or those seeking a more supportive practice.
4. Yoga Nidra
Yogic Sleep for Deep Relaxation
Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation practice, not a physical yoga session. Practiced lying down, it takes you into a state between waking and sleeping, allowing deep rest and subconscious healing.
- Great for stress, anxiety, and sleep issues
- Requires no movement—just listening and awareness
- 30 minutes can feel like hours of rest
Best for: Mental and emotional relaxation, sleep support, and trauma recovery.
5. Somatic Yoga
Movement Meets Mindfulness
Somatic yoga blends slow, intentional movements with an awareness of internal sensations. The focus is on releasing chronic tension patterns through neuromuscular re-education.
- Movements are often small and repeated
- Emphasizes body awareness and nervous system reset
- Helps undo stress-related muscular holding
Best for: Tension relief, reconnecting with the body, and trauma-sensitive practices.
6. Kundalini Yoga (Gentle Modifications)
Spiritual and Energetic Awakening
Kundalini yoga is known for its dynamic energy, but gentler variations focus on meditative kriyas (movement sets), breathwork (pranayama), and chanting.
- Uses repetitive movements and breath to balance energy
- Often includes deep meditative states
- Strengthens the nervous system and builds resilience
Best for: Those seeking spiritual depth and energetic healing in a gentler form.
7. Slow Flow or Gentle Vinyasa
Mindful Movement with Breath
While vinyasa is often more dynamic, gentle or slow flow versions prioritize ease, breath, and control over intensity. This is a great stepping stone between restorative practices and more active yoga.
- Slow transitions between poses with supportive breathwork
- Can be physically engaging without being overwhelming
- Often includes modifications and optional pauses
Best for: Those looking to reintroduce movement mindfully.
8. Iyengar Yoga (Gentle Practice)
Precision with Support
Iyengar yoga emphasizes alignment, posture precision, and the use of props. While it can be quite rigorous, gentle classes focus more on support and safe engagement, making it suitable for beginners and those needing modifications.
- Uses blocks, straps, bolsters, and walls
- Encourages safe alignment and mindful awareness
- Excellent for therapeutic applications
Best for: Students who enjoy structure, support, and focus on alignment.
Final Thoughts
Restorative yoga is a beautiful entry point into the world of gentle yoga, but it’s not the only path to relaxation and healing. Whether you prefer the meditative depth of Yoga Nidra, the body-awareness of somatic movement, or the supportive structure of chair yoga, there’s a gentle yoga style to fit your needs and preferences. Exploring these options can enrich your practice and provide you with a more diverse toolkit for physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness.