I took my first Yin Yoga class in 2009, and have been practicing this style of yoga regularly since. Whereas Jivamukti (yang, fast-paced vinyasa) has been my regular, near-daily practice for over a decade, Yin is incredibly complimentary and a practice I enjoy doing once or twice a week, or when I’m experiencing overwhelm, burnout or am menstruating or injured.
Yin Yoga is a slow, floor-based practice that focuses on developing flexibility through gentle pressure and stretches that target the soft and connective tissues of the body. Postures are held for longer than traditional styles of yoga, sometimes with props (pillows, blankets, cushions etc) to aid in creating stillness. While the practice is deeply nourishing, and can lead you into meditative states, it also helps develop mental strength by sitting with discomfort and redirecting the focus onto the breath.
If you find it difficult to be still, this style of yoga will be so good and challenging for you. And if you enjoy a slower-based practice that encourages relaxation, you will love yin yoga.
Yin Yoga is also closely related to and has its roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The sequence of postures within a class is often based on a meridian pair (energetic pathway) from TCM teachings. Each meridian is associated with a particular organ, season, element and qualities; mental, emotional, energetic and sensory. The posture sequence for each meridian helps to stimulate the flow of chi (energy) in these areas to replenish, balance and nourish our vitality.
At the end of the class, you will leave feeling relaxed, stretched and settled.
I am offering Yin Yoga in a number of ways here on my website:
- FREE weekly classes for the Queer Community – Sundays at 5pm AEDT
- Bi-monthly Moon Practice classes – via Livestream and Replay (become a 3- or 28-day member to gain access)
- Pre-recorded Audio Classes – available in various lengths (35-90 mins) in the Audio Library to members
I hope you’ll join me for a practice soon!
With love,
Sandy.
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