I have been stuck in "go, go, go" mode for a while, always rushing and overworking (but not neccessarily feeling productive). It seems to be the most common mode of people these days, at least when I look at my social media feeds...
Do you feel the same? Rushing, overworking, even over-exercising?
Most modern fitness and even many yoga styles fall into that "go, go, go" context. In yoga we call this yang: active, fast, highly intense.
And then there is yin!
Yin is the opposite of yang, of go, go, go: it’s still, calming, and works on the deeper layers of your body, mind and soul. Yin yoga gives your body and mind time to pause, helping you recharge and stay balanced. It also complements intense workouts by improving your mobility, flexibility and thereby preventing injury.
This balance is essential if you have a busy, high-stress life where you don’t take time to slow down and restore your energy as often as needed.
What is Yin Yoga?
Yin yoga is a slow and quiet style of yoga where you hold poses for a long time, usually 3-5 minutes. Unlike other types of yoga that focus on building strength or flowing through movements, yin targets the deep connective tissues like ligaments, fascia, and joints, improving flexibility and mobility on a physical level. Energetically, it stimulates energy pathways (meridians) in the body, helping to clear blockages and restore balance, thereby calming your overactive systems, helping you feel grounded. For the spirit and soul, yin yoga creates a space for self-reflection and deep inner stillness, encouraging mindfulness and creating moments of deep connection with yourself.
The 3 Principles of Yin Yoga
I am extremely lucky to have trained with renowned yin yoga master Bernie Clark, who has published several books on the topic, including the go-to book on yin yoga and the science behind it (https://amzn.eu/d/2qAJpxk). My teaching is heavily influenced by Bernie's wisdom and knowledge, and in particular his three guiding principles of yin yoga:
Find your edge: Go into a pose until you feel a gentle stretch, but don’t push too far. It should feel challenging but not painful, allowing your body to release tension gradually. Energetically, this principle helps you listen to your body’s needs. Spiritually, it teaches acceptance and patience.
Be still: Once you’re in the pose, stay as still as possible. This helps your body and mind settle, allowing physical relaxation and deep healing. Energetically, stillness helps energy flow freely. For the soul, it encourages you to embrace the present moment.
Hold for time: Stay in each pose for 3-5 minutes to allow the deeper tissues to open and release. Physically, this creates space for real change in your body’s flexibility and strength. Energetically, holding poses supports the gentle release of stuck energy. Spiritually, it teaches the power of surrender and trusting the process.
Why Add Yin Yoga to Your Routine?
If you're an active person
If you love exercise or hit the gym regularly, yin yoga is the perfect balance to your active lifestyle. It helps improve your mobility and flexibility, protect your joints, and prevent injuries caused by tight muscles or overtraining. It also calms your nervous system, helping you recover faster and feel more balanced after intense workouts.
If you're a more inactive person (or if you hate exercise or gyms)
If gyms or exercise aren’t your thing, yin yoga is gentle, accessible, and doesn’t require immediate strength or fitness. It’s a relaxing way to release stiffness in your body from sitting too much or being inactive. Yin also helps reduce stress, ease tension, and bring a sense of calm without breaking a sweat.
So, whether you're always moving or barely moving, yin yoga is a way to restore balance, recharge, and feel better in both your body and mind. Even once a month can make a big difference!
If you want to find out more about yin yoga, how you can benefit and where you can take yin yoga sessions, email me: info@unwindyogastudio.com
Sandra x
Comments