If you have been doing yoga for a while, you might discover that you have been experiencing only part of the practice. Yin yoga is the other half. Most forms of yoga are dynamic, active practices designed to work only half of the body, the muscular half, the Yang tissues. Yin yoga allows us to work the other half, the deeper Yin tissues of our ligaments, joints, deep fascial networks and even or bones. All our tissues are important so that we can achieve optimal health and vitality.
It is a slower paced practice, however, it is not Restorative it can be quite challenging.
Yin Yoga emphasizes passive, static postures, with cool muscles in a relaxed state. The postures are held for a long time This way, the dense connective tissues in and around the muscles and joints are stimulated, somewhat stretched, and ultimately strengthened. Studies suggest that on a physical level, Yin Yoga helps promote the strength, vitality, hydration, and mobility of our connective tissues. Yet Yin Yoga works on an energetic level, too.
So what happens in Yin yoga, a typical class would be one hour, there are very few postures and each one is held for 1 to 5 minutes When you hold the body in these poses for a minute or up to five, the body’s connective tissue and fascia are targeted. It may sound easy but remaining still in a posture can be surprisingly challenging. In general, the focus is on the lower part of the body, hips. hamstrings, lower back, pelvis. You work at your own pace, fully aware as to how the body is responding allowing you personally to ease and yield to the postures.
Another amazing benefit is mindfulness, the practice is slow, which enable you to practice mindfulness and meditation, being aware of being in the moment. No past no future just this present moment. Connecting with the para-sympathetic nervous system reducing stress levels.
Time, stillness and awareness are the magic ingredients of a Yin practice.
Once you start to practice mindfulness you can bring it into your daily life. Enhancing your well-being and reducing stress.
Written by Daphne Bath and published on Friday 28th August 2020 at 10:30
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