Yin yoga is a form of yoga that is carried out at a slow pace and targets the connective tissues of the body – the fascia, the ligaments and the joints, bringing about benefits to our body and mind.
It involves moving slowly into a position of a guided pose to stress the targeted tissues and staying in this position for a period of time (3-10 minutes), remaining still, allowing the connective tissues to be opened and lengthened to improve mobility throughout the body.
Holding these poses for longer periods of time allows us to practice the skill of stillness. We are given the chance to “feel” what is happening within our bodies and to pay attention to what is really happening.
We can therefore benefit physically, mentally and emotionally from Yin yoga and enhance our awareness of the energy within our body.
“Unhurried postures unstained by striving” – Sarah Powers
Why practice Yin Yoga with us at PhysioWorksNI?
In today’s society we tend to live in a very “yang” way. We are very busy, stressed , working long hours and not having the time to spend on ourselves and relax. Many forms of exercise and other methods of yoga are also very yang, they target the physical part of health and focus on the muscles of the body. They generally involve very vigorous movements. With these forms of exercise, we do not get the time to “feel” the tissues or get the time to appreciate the movement. We can miss those other important parts of health- the mental, emotional and energetic side as well as the physical side.
By introducing yin yoga into our lives we can bring about this balance, getting the chance to enjoy the physical, mental and emotional areas of health as well as the energetic benefits.
We allow our minds and bodies to slow down and and experience the quieter side and have the chance to practice the skill of being still.
By taking our time and lingering in positions for longer we can:
- Improve flexibility in our bodies by targeting joints,ligaments and the deep connective tissues.
- Calm and balance the mind and body.
- Help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Improve the flow of Chi/energy.
- Practice stillness and be more mindful of the body.
Debbie runs a monthly Yin Yoga class on a Friday evening from 5.00pm – 6.00pm. Please check the class timetable for class dates.
