Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga is a passive practice, based on a  combination and sequencing of certain postures that are held from 2 to 20 min. Due to this hold, deeper connective tissues start to release, as opposed to muscular activation in other yoga practices. At the energy level, the practice of yin removes blockages and disruption of Qi energy (the energy that governs our bodies), raises and transforms blocked or suppressed emotions. This practice brings stability and deep healing not only on the physical and energetic levels, but also emotional and psychological wellbeing.

Origins and history

Yin Yoga practice is based on symbiotic relationship of Chinese and Indian cultures, rooting in the principles of Daoist system and Hatha yoga, study of chakras and energy channels. It shaped its modern identity in 1970s when a martial art champion Paulie Zink invented his own series of postures to help his students, also martial arts practitioners, stretch tight and strong muscles. Zinkś student Paul Grilley began to teach a fusion of the Yin poses he had learned from Zink and Hatha yoga and anatomy. He created Yin sequences that target the body and energy pathways similar to an acupuncture treatment. Paulie Zink, Paul Grilley and their disciples continue teaching Yin yoga worldwide. 


Philosophy and principles
The concept of Yin Yoga finds its roots in Taoism which, in its turn, is based on the concept of the worldś duality, existence of complementary Yin and Yang forces within us that emerged out of ONE single flow of energy Qi. (you might have heard of Tai Qi, QiGong, where Qi is THAT one energy of union).The whole world is comprised of Yin and Yang energies: sun and moon, sky and earth, night and day, warmth and coolness, inhalation and exhalation. In a human body Qi energy (in Chinese teachings) or Prana (in Indian teachings) travels through meridian channels (China) or nadis (India) from one chakra to another. “The meridian network is like a system of highways, roads and streets that links major cities. As long as Qi flows freely through the meridians and the organs work in harmony, the body can avoid disease” [1]

Energy in the body circulates via these channels/meridians in all connective tissue to every cell in our physical being.

Modern meridian theory looks at the physical body from the yin and yang duality perspective where yin being connective tissue and yang – muscle tissue. Connective tissue is the primary support and protection layer of our body. In broader sense, these are the bones, ligaments, joints, fascia, derma and blood vessels. Every cell and every organ is framed by connective tissue. 

The four main principles of practice:

  1. optimal level of intensity 
  2. mindfulness while holding a pose
  3. extended period of hold
  4. gradual and slow exit from a pose 

Benefits of regular practice:

  • relaxes deep layers of connective tissues
  • increases the range of motion in joints
  • activates blood circulation 
  • improves flexibility
  • releases spinal tension thus improving the posture
  • eliminates energy blockages in the body
  • harmonizes emotional state
  • helps with stress and anxiety
  • teaches to be mindful
  • improves brain functioning and problem solving
  • activates parasympathetic nervous system (relaxation response)

Contraindications Consult your primary physician or doctor if you have any joint ailments, injuries to spine. 

[1] extract from Ruth E Lyckeś book «China or Die: The Shocking Truth About Your Complete Recovery Options After Suffering a Stroke»