In modern society, we are constantly moving. Moving from one project to the next, balancing work, family and self-care. Even modern yoga has adapted to this on-the-go mentality, with many studios focusing on vinyasa, hot or power yoga. Behind this movement is another necessary aspect – the ability and necessity of slowing down. Enter Yin yoga.
Yin traces its origins back the Taoist tradition in China and often focuses along the meridians in the body, pathways in which Qi, or energy, flows. It is the difference in origins and focus of the pose that accounts for the different names between a traditional “yang” asana practice (like vinyasa) and Yin.
Yin is designed to stretch the connective tissues of the body, opening the meridians and allowing Qi to flow freely. It is long-held poses done seated or lying, relaxing the muscles. By relaxing the muscles, gentle strain is put on the ligaments, tendons and fascia of the body. Let me emphasize: gentle strain. Ligaments and tendons connect our joints together, either bone to bone or muscle to bone, and should not be over stretched. Gradually lengthening them however can increase our flexibility and help prevent injury. Fascia is the muscles’ protective covering. Tight muscles often means tight fascia as well, which over time can limit range of motion. Fascial release poses can improve range of motion.
Yin often uses props to help the body into a pose even with limited flexibility. Long full breaths keep our heart rate down and help us to relax the muscles. And while yin is accessible to everybody, that does not mean it is easy. Fully relaxing into an intense hip opener takes practice, like any other yoga.
What I love about yin is that this practice is, to me, a form of meditation. Staying with my breath, in my body for several continuous minutes. Quieting the mind and just listening to my breath. Feeling what exactly is going on in my body. And when the pose is intense, it’s not allowing my mind to wander to distract myself from the intensity but sitting with it. Staying with discomfort. Learning to deal with adversity straight-on. And not just on the mat, but in life as well. I can use the same tools of focusing on the breath and in the moment to pause, to check and perhaps change my reaction, to deal with the situation directly in front of me, and not the potential affects, which cannot be known. Training myself to deal with the inevitable adversity I will face in life.
Plus, it just feels good. Since yin is a passive practice, meaning that muscle engagement is minimal, I am able and encouraged to just let go, relax and be still. In a world that changes rapidly, giving myself permission to just be still is the greatest gift I can do for myself, and my body.
This is what yin does for me. And hopefully can do for you. Ready to get started? Click here.
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