Introduction: Restorative yoga is a form of active relaxation, which is characterized by the use of various props in supported positions (asanas). It differs from other forms of yoga in four principles, which are relaxation in a well-supported body position, a dark and quiet practice space and maintenance of comfortable warmth of the body. Its goal is to stimulate regeneration processes by calming the central nervous system and consequently reducing the secretion of stress hormones. Positive effects are reflected in both physical and mental health by relieving the effects of chronic stress, building emotional resilience, soothing persistent pain, alleviating headaches, improving the quality of sleep and assisting women's health issues. Purpose: The purpose of the diploma thesis was to determine the effects of restorative yoga on various aspects of the human body and quality of life based on a literature review. Methods: The literature review was executed in the PubMed electronic database. We reviewed scientific research in English, in which the effects of restorative yoga were determined on various groups of participants. Results: Six studies were selected for the literature review. Half of the studies included an intervention and control group, two studies compared restorative yoga and stretching, and the last one was a randomized crossover study. Statistically significant data were obtained in all studies, but many effects require further research. Discussion and conclusion: Restorative yoga has a positive effect on metabolic values, quality of sleep, depression, stress, fatigue and pain. The authors also observed changes in blood pressure, heart rate and body weight. Further qualitative research on larger groups of participants is needed to confirm the existing findings and to discover other long-term effects of restorative yoga.
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