As a practitioner of Hatha, Vinyasa or Ashtanga yoga, Yin yoga helps to balance the blood-pumping, heat building and strengthening aspect of these “yang” practices. The focus of the Yin practice is lengthening the muscles around the pelvis, shoulders, hips and lower back. The poses are typically held from 3 – 10 minutes each side in order to lengthen the connective tissue that surrounds the joints. It focuses on the fascia, tendons and ligaments in order to increase elasticity and flexibility.
Yin yoga also helps to improve the flow of our prana (life force energy) or chi. There are thousands of energy circuit around our navel around because the organs are what makes the body function. As we clear out energetic blockages and restrictions, the life force travels freely through our bodies again, this revitalizes our internal organs, improves immune system and calms the nervous system.
The essence of Yin yoga is surrender. The practice includes several long postures. The practice is meditative, compliment our active Yang modern world and can lead to explore inner peace.
Prop supports are commonly used in yin yoga to support deep rest.
If you have a consistent Yang yoga practice, it is recommended to practice Yin yoga once a week.
The Ying aspect brings out these qualities of ourselves:
Sensitivity
Opening
Gentleness
Vulnerability
Willingness to serve
Celebration
Acceptance
Youthful