Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga is a softer more poetic side of Yoga. A perfect compliment to the yang styles most of us practice, this beautiful and quieter form renders joint pliability and inner calm. I was lucky enough to discover this ancient Taoist form of Yoga about 10 yrs ago thru my dear friend and 1st teacher: Paul Grilley. From the 1st practice, it felt right. Sitting in simple floor poses for 3-5 minutes was heaven for my yin-like constitution and such a relief from the demands of my yang addictions. Not necessarily easy to do as 5 minutes in a seated forward bend can make you feel like you are about to break in half, but truly nourishing to the joints, connective tissues and something more -- the meridian/energy pathways throughout the body.

Yin Yoga is based upon Meridian energy theory - an ancient Chinese medical system upon which Acupuncture is based. Sitting in long held poses you can actually feel pent up energy release and begin to travel through the tributaries of the body. I love this practice. It has done so much for slowing down my vata (hyper) constitution and moistening my aging insides. They say Yin Yoga has become an anti-aging practice as it renders your inner body to become more fluid and subtle. This has been my experience and certainly is what keeps me coming back to my mat.

Beyond the physical however, Yin Yo brings forth a contemplative - spiritual aspect to mind. When you are guided to be still for long periods of time, there is time to ponder life's big questions, to dwell on thoughts of "how am I" and "what the heck is my life about anyway". Doing Yin is a precious time to introspect which I have come to discover is very healthy for my mind and spirit.

Try it:-)