Yin Yoga Class at Yogaworks (with teacher Diana Estey)
Initially called “Daoist” yoga , yin yoga targets the deep connective tissues of the body (vs. the superficial tissues) and the fascia that covers every cell of the body; it helps regulate the flow of energy in the body.
Yin Yoga postures are more passive, mainly performed on the floor where the practitioner can relinquish and rely on gravity to deepen the pose. This style is unique in that you are asked to relax in the posture, soften the muscle and move closer to the bone. Yin offers a much deeper access to the body, it is not uncommon to see postures held for three to five minutes, even 20 minutes at a time. Many of the postures focus on areas that encompass a joint (hips, sacrum, spine).
This intimate practice of yoga requires students to be ready to get in touch with the self, with feelings, sensations, and emotions. It is a great tool for “learning to sit still.”
Some of the benefits of Yin yoga are:
- Calming and balancing to the mind and body
- Regulates energy in the body
- Increases mobility in the body, especially the joints and hips
- Lowering of stress levels (no one needs that)
- Greater stamina
- Better lubrication and protection of joints
- More flexibility in joints & connective tissue
- Release of fascia throughout the body
- Help with TMJ and migraines
- Deeper Relaxation
- A great coping for anxiety and stress
- Better ability to sit for meditation
- Ultimately you will have a better Yang practice
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