Yin Yoga is a yoga practice that works slowly and deeply with asana (yoga postures) to balance the physical body. What makes Yin Yoga unique is that it targets the connective tissues, such as the ligaments, bones, and even the joints of the body more deeply. In addition it works with Chi or the circulating life force whose existence and properties are the basis of much of Chinese philosophy and medicine. In Yin Yoga classes poses are often held for long periods of time, opening the body and encouraging the flow of this energy using passive surrender rather than active effort.
Yin Yoga generally targets the connective tissues of the hips, pelvis, and lower spine, and uses gravity and the passing of time to slowly and gradually deepen the pose and open energy channels. It is a gentle form of yoga that is suitable for all levels of students.
The History of Yin Yoga.
Yin Yoga traces it roots back through Hatha and Taoist Yoga and more recently through B.K.S. Iyengar, who in the 1960s promoted holding certain asana for extended periods of time. It’s origin stems from the need to prepare for long periods of seated meditation, which requires the lower body and hips to be open and strong.
Yin Yoga was first introduced to North America in the 1980s, by Paulie Zink, a Taoist Yoga and Martial Arts instructor. The Taoist influence on this practice is where modern Yin gets its strong connection to Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture, and the animal names for the Yin asana. Paul Grilley studied under Paulie Zink and took Yin Yoga one-step further in the 1990s with the influence of Dr. Hiroshi Motoyama’s Meridian Theory. The Yin Yoga Meridian Theory works with Chi, similar to Prana (Indian) and Meridian (Chinese) or Nadi (Indian) lines which allow that life force energy to flow through the body. Chakras and Chi have an interconnected role within Yin Yoga and by practicing yoga postures one is able to open up that chi/prana flow. Paul’s students Sarah Powers and Bernie Clarke along with Paul Grilley himself, remain the pre-eminent teachers within the field of modern Yin Yoga.
Our Classes
Yin Yoga classes are profoundly relaxing and grounding. They provide ample time and space to deepen and explore each pose while staying connected to the breath. Try our Yin Yoga classes Tuesdays at 6pm or Saturdays at 10.15am with Ashley.
Authors: Ashley Baker & Lainie Cook
Resources:
Web –
Books –
The Complete Guide to Yin Yoga: The Philosophy and Practice of Yin Yoga
by Bernie Clark and Sarah Powers
Yin Yoga: Principles and Practice — 10th Anniversary Edition
by Paul Grilley
YinSights: A Journey into the Philosophy & Practice of Yin Yoga
by Bernie Clark
by Sarah Powers and Paul Grilley