/ Yin Yoga
Asanas for a Supple Body & Flexible Mind
/ Slow-Paced & Meditative Yin Yoga
Gentle asanas, a guided meditation and essential oils for deep relaxation – that’s Yin Yoga. This style of yoga features deep stretches that target the body’s fascia networks. Quiet and meditative, Yin Yoga aims to reduce stress and release tension for deep relaxation as the asanas work on the subtle body and thoughts. It is therefore helpful to release and prevent pain, tension and emotional obstacles.
Despite its popularity, Yin Yoga is not a new trend but has its roots in centuries-old practices. In Europe, Yin Yoga has been known since the 1980s and is associated with the American martial artist Paulie Zink. He attributes his extraordinary agility and success as a martial artist to this yoga style, which he learnt as Taoist yoga from his kung fu master Cho Chat Ling. Yin Yoga is a synthesis of Taoist principles and Hatha yoga.
The asanas (postures) in this calm and passive yoga style are mostly performed in a lying or seated position. Each is held for between three and seven minutes, thereby stretching the connective tissue and calming the mind. The Yang aspect of this style refers to the muscles, while Yin represents the connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments. Yin Yoga poses are usually performed with little to no muscular effort and any muscles that aren’t needed to perform an asana should be completely relaxed, creating space for a calm, meditative state. At the same time, muscles, ligaments and tendons are deeply stretched. Holding the asanas for an extended period reaches the deep connective tissues and releases fascia adhesions.
/ Mental Focus
On a psychological level, the effects of Yin Yoga are similar to those of meditation. Some people find that holding asanas for a while brings up emotions such as anger, grief and despair as well as helpful memories and learning experiences that taught them to stay calm and endure in certain situations. By focusing your attention more on yourself and your body, the holistic effect unfolds and brings the gross, energetic and mental bodies into balance. This can solve emotional blockages and increase zest and vitality.
If you’re struggling with tension, a busy schedule and frenetic lifestyle, you can find balance by regularly practising Yin Yoga. It’s beginner-friendly, suitable for most people and heightens your perception of your body, thoughts and feelings.
As well as being suitable for beginners, we highly recommend Yin Yoga to athletes as a balancing activity.
Photocredit: © Said – Studio M
Read more
Yoga for Sleep Disorders at the Mound Med Resort | Restore deep, restful sleep | Reduce stress | Enjoy a refreshed start to your day!
Detox Yoga & Exercise: Stimulate the metabolism, reduce environmental toxins and relieve strain on the digestive system.
