Yin Yoga

Western Yoga is almost exclusively 'Yang' or muscular in nature. The Yin aspect of Yoga is virtually unknown but is vital for a balanced approach to physical and mental health.

Yin Yoga uses postures that stretch connective tissue by allowing the body to relax and open deeply into the hips, pelvis and lower spine. It focuses on the connective tissue. As important as it is to our physical and mental wellbeing to be strong, it is not muscular strength that gives us the feeling of ease and lightness in the body. This is achieved by creating flexibility in the joints and connective tissue. Athletes don't retire because they have muscle problems; they retire because of joint problems. Yin Yoga gently stretches and rehabilitates the connective tissues that form our joints.

A fundamental characteristic of Yin Yoga is holding poses for several minutes. Connective tissue does not respond to brief, rhythmical stretches the way muscles do. The connective tissues that form our joints can be safely and desirably exercised with gentle stretching. To stretch connective tissue around a joint, the muscles must be relaxed. If the muscles are tense, the connective tissue does not take the stress.

Combine Yin Yoga with your regular Yang style practices of Power or Vinyasa Level 1 Yoga to achieve the perfect balance. Warm up by practicing a Yang class, and then allow yourself to let go, unfold and relax in Yin Yoga while listening to inspiring and uplifting music.

The classes are challenging but gentle, and incorporate 6-9 postures that are held for between 3 to 5 minutes.