Yin Yoga
In Chinese philosophy, yin-yang represents the opposite and complementary forces. Yin is often represented by the moon, cool, shade, softness, and passivity.
While Yang yoga’s primary focus is muscle lengthening and muscle contraction, Yin yoga focuses on working the connective tissues, such as the ligaments and tendons. More specifically, the ligaments and tendons of the pelvis, hip, and lower back area are worked.
Yin yoga encompasses these characteristics by moving at a slower pace and by holding asanas for more extended periods than other styles of yoga. It’s a more meditative approach with a physical focus much more in-depth than Yang like practices.
When compared to more yang-like styles of yoga, yin yoga is more conducive to meditation, while still reaping the physical benefits that other styles of yoga can deliver.
Don’t let the name fool you.
Yin yoga by name may appear to be a less strenuous form of yoga, and in comparison to styles such as Ashtanga or Bikram yoga, it is. Nevertheless, it is very challenging in its way.
In other words, it does not require the muscular endurance that Ashtanga and Bikram required; but, it requires being able to hold certain positions for at least 3-5 minutes at a time.
What To Expect From a Yin Yoga Class
Definitely expect a slower-paced class.
Instead of quickly moving from one Asana to another, like in a Bikram or Vinyasa Yoga class, expect to be required to hold each posture for 3-5 minutes.
As mentioned above, a Yin Yoga class will be less about muscular endurance, and more about holding fewer positions, allowing yourself to relax on each one of them.
Additionally, this private practice of yoga requires students to be ready to get intimate with the self, with feelings, sensations, and emotions, something of which I have noticed can be easy to avoid in fast-paced yoga practice.
The Benefits of Yin Yoga
As we age, the flexibility in the joints decreases, and Yin yoga is a wonderful way to maintain that flexibility, something that for many don’t seem to be too concerned about until they notice it is significantly reduced.
Yin Yoga can genuinely do amazing things to your regular yoga practice. These are some of its benefits:
- It helps calm and balances your mind and body.
- Regulates the energy flow in your body.
- Increases mobility in the body, particularly in the joints and hips.
- It helps lower stress levels.
- It’s associated with greater stamina.
- It helps lubricate and protect your joints.
- Increases flexibility in joints and connective tissue as well.
- It releases fascia throughout the body.
- Helps with jaw pain and migraine.
- Fosters deeper states of relaxation.
- It helps cope with anxiety.
- It can easily lead to meditation.
Is Yin Yoga Good for Everyone?
Absolutely!
Moreover, if you are looking to strengthen and stretch your body for complete relaxation, then yin yoga is the best way to do this. Meditation can only be achieved through relaxation first.
Yin Yoga, Emotions and Anxiety
Yin Yoga is frequently used in addiction treatment programs. Also, to treat eating disorders, anxiety, emotional pain, and trauma.
One of the reasons for this is that Yin Yoga confronts people with their fear of being alone and sitting with their feelings and sensations.
Holding an Asana for several minutes can help develop more excellent mental stability while “learning to sit still.”
Yin yoga teaches you how to listen; you don’t get the opportunity to go in and out, jump around, and find a distracted version of stillness within your practice. Yin is such a great compliment to other styles and your personal life because it brings long periods in an uncomfortable position, which then asks you to learn to “be” to “accept what is” in that given moment. Something we can all benefit from daily.
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- Duration 45 hours
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- Language English
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