We are delighted to have recently introduced a class dedicated to the style of Yin Yoga.
So we thought, why not write a blog post and give you the lowdown on this fabulous practice!
What is Yin Yoga?
Yin Yoga is a slow-paced style of Yoga where poses are held for extended periods, typically 3-5 minutes or longer. It focuses on stretching and targeting the connective tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, and fascia, rather than just the muscles. This practice aims to enhance circulation in the joints and improve flexibility.
What is Yin and Yang?
Yin and Yang are fundamental concepts in Chinese philosophy, culture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. They describe how seemingly opposite forces are interconnected and interdependent in the natural world. Yin represents qualities such as darkness, passivity, femininity, and cold, while Yang symbolizes light, activity, masculinity, and heat. Together, they create a dynamic balance.
Where does Yin Yoga originate from?
Yin Yoga as a distinct practice was developed in the late 20th century, drawing from ancient Chinese Taoist principles and modern yoga practices. It was popularized by Paul Grilley and Sarah Powers. Paul Grilley was inspired by Paulie Zink, a martial artist and Taoist yoga teacher.
What are the principles of Yin Yoga?
The core principles of Yin Yoga include:
1. Find Your Edge: Stretching to a point of mild to moderate sensation, not pain.
2. Hold the Pose: Staying in the posture for several minutes.
3. Be Still: Encouraging relaxation and stillness of the body and mind while holding the pose.
Yin Yoga and Taoism
Yin Yoga is deeply influenced by Taoist philosophy, which emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao (the fundamental nature of the universe). It aligns with the Taoist idea of balance and flow, focusing on the passive (Yin) aspects of yoga as a complement to the more active (Yang) styles of practice.
Yin Yoga and nature / the seasons
Yin Yoga connects with the rhythms of nature and the changing seasons. Teachers and practitioners often align their practice with seasonal energies, for example, focusing on restorative poses during winter (a Yin season) and more energizing poses during summer (a Yang season).
Each season also represents a different element, organ, emotion and much more according to Yin Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Who can practice Yin Yoga?
Everyone! Yin Yoga is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. It’s particularly beneficial for those looking to increase flexibility, improve joint health, and reduce stress. However, if you are pregnant or have any medical conditions or injuries you should consult with a healthcare professional and speak to us of course.
Yin Yoga Sequence
Find below a Yin Yoga sequence that you might like to try!
If you are practicing without a teacher present, please take it slowly and mindfully, and listen to the boundaries of the body and mind carefully and intuitively.
Enjoy!
1. Sukhasana (2-5 minutes): Arrive and ground, set an intention (optional).
2. Caterpillar Pose (2-5 minutes): Sit with legs extended forward, fold over your legs, letting the spine round.
3. Butterfly Pose (2-5 minutes): Sit with soles of feet together, allowing knees to fall apart. Fold forward, relaxing the spine.
4. Dragon Pose (2-5 minutes per side): From hands and knees, step one foot forward into a low lunge. Allow the hips to sink.
4. Sphinx Pose (2-5 minutes): Lie on your stomach, prop yourself up on your forearms, and relax your lower back.
5. Child’s Pose (2-5 minutes): Sit the seat to the heels, knees wide, arms reach forward.
6. Sukhasana (2-5 minutes): Reconnect to body, intention and breath.
7. Constructive Rest (2-5 minutes): Feet to floor and wide, knees knock in, spine to earth.
8. Reclining Twist (2-5 minutes per side): Draw knees to the chest, then let them fall across your body. Keep upper back to the earth, take arms wide.
9. Savasana (5-10 minutes): Lie flat on your back with arms and legs extended, relax completely.
Yin Yoga is a meditative and slow-paced practice that targets deep connective tissues. Rooted in Taoist philosophy, it emphasizes balance and stillness, making it complementary to more dynamic yoga styles. It aligns with natural rhythms and can be adapted to suit different seasons.
Yin Yoga is often confused with Restorative Yoga, and despite there being a few cross-overs in the shapes, the 2 practices are very different.
We always recommend that you attend classes with teachers who are specially qualified in specific styles and have the knowledge and experience required to create and curate the class. This is for your health and safety, and to ensure that your class and experience is a true reflection of the style / lineage of Yoga, and as enjoyable as possible!
We have multiple qualified Yin Yoga teachers at the studio, and this class will be taught and covered by them.
You can book the class via your Glofox app, or head to the website booking page by clicking here.
Enjoy your practice!
We also offer regular Yin Yoga Workshops - our next one is coming up in September 2024.