Y O G A P O S E + B R E A T H + S T I L L N E S S
How it works
Yin yoga is a slow moving yoga practice that primarily incorporates seated and or reclined poses. Practiced in a comfortably warm room, each pose is held for a duration of time in relative stillness whilst taking slow, deep, even breaths. It is this long-hold of poses that helps to gently and safely stress the connective tissues (ligaments, cartilage, fascia), which over time, can improve flexibility and range of motion.
In addition to improving your physical wellbeing, Yin yoga can help to calm your nervous system which in our modern world can be in a constant low level state of 'fight or flight'. The slow even breathing while holding the poses in stillness, helps us to activate our parasympathetic nervous system - the state when the body can rest, digest and restore - which can be beneficial to your immune system, sleep and overall mental health.
The class is led by an instructor who provides instructions to guide you into the poses and each class will differ depending on the target areas being focused on by the pose. Props, such as yoga blocks & bolsters, are available and modifications are offered, to help you find comfort in the pose.
In addition to improving your physical wellbeing, Yin yoga can help to calm your nervous system which in our modern world can be in a constant low level state of 'fight or flight'. The slow even breathing while holding the poses in stillness, helps us to activate our parasympathetic nervous system - the state when the body can rest, digest and restore - which can be beneficial to your immune system, sleep and overall mental health.
The class is led by an instructor who provides instructions to guide you into the poses and each class will differ depending on the target areas being focused on by the pose. Props, such as yoga blocks & bolsters, are available and modifications are offered, to help you find comfort in the pose.
T H E B E N E F I T S
The yin to your yang
Yin yoga complements the yang style of not only hot yoga but many other forms of yang based exercises. When practiced together students benefit from a balanced approach that addresses both the yin (connective) and yang (muscular) aspects of the body.
Increased joint mobility
Yin yoga gently stress the joints, promoting lubrication & mobility. Regular practice can alleviate stiffness and discomfort especially in the hips, spine, and shoulders. |
Support for deep tissues
Yin focuses on the health of deeper tissues (fascia, tendons, cartilage, ligaments, & bones), providing an opportunity to prioritise & support these often neglected parts of the body. |
Enhanced circulation
The prolonged holds in Yin yoga encourage blood flow to specific areas of the body, helping to nourish the tissues & promote healing in the target area of the pose. |
Balancing energy flows
Yin yoga focuses on stimulating the flow of energy through meridians or energy channels. By targeting specific meridians in each pose, yin yoga can help to balance the body’s energy. |
Emotional balance
Yin yoga encourages introspection, by noticing & releasing the emotions that may arise. Clearing emotional blockages can support feelings of overall wellbeing. |
Stress reduction
The meditative quality of a Yin practice can help to calm the nervous system & activate the body’s rest and digest response. This may have physical, mental & emotional health benefits. |