If you think that yoga requires you to bend into crazy shapes or work up a sweat, think again. While yin yoga may not be as popular as other types of yoga — at least in the United States — more and more people are checking it out. And for good reason.
While most yoga styles work the superficial muscles of your body, yin yoga gives you an opportunity to get into the deeper connective tissues. This makes it effective at relieving both physical and mental tension. Plus, it’s a more accessible type of yoga. While vinyasa flows can have you moving quickly through a series of poses, yin yoga moves slowly.
The benefits of yin yoga
All yoga can help you tap into deeper physical and mental wellness. But it’s not all the same. If you want to work up a sweat, try Bikram yoga. If you’d prefer a fluid practice, vinyasa could be for you. But if you’re hunting for a way to create deeper relaxation and release in your body, yin’s the way to go.
During a yin practice, you hold poses for longer periods of time. This does two things. First, it means you stay in the pose long enough for your superficial muscles — the ones you use constantly throughout the day — to relax. This allows the stretch to reach the deeper connective tissue around your joints, improving your range of motion and flexibility.
Secondly, it gives you an opportunity to slow down. If you lead a go-go-go lifestyle, this type of yoga presents you a chance to breathe and let the dust of your life settle. It gives you an extended quiet moment where you can catch your breath.
What to expect during a yin class
If you’ve thought about trying yoga out but have been hesitant, a yin class is a great place to start. During it, you’ll be moving slowly so you don’t have to worry about getting lost. You’ll have plenty of time to ask the teacher for corrections if you’re not sure how a pose should feel or look. And you’ll have the luxury of plenty of time to observe your body, finding what feels good for you.
Yin yoga classes usually take place in a relaxing space. There might be soft music and lit candles. You sit on your mat until the teacher guides you into your first pose, which you hold for 3–5 minutes. Then, the teacher cues the next pose, which you again hold for at least a few minutes. The pace of the class is slow and the emphasis is on relaxation. You leave feeling looser and, ideally, more centered.
If you’re interested in trying yin yoga at home, we have five relaxing yoga poses you can use. Move through them, holding each for at least a few minutes to feel your body and mind relax.
Want more tools to banish stress from your life? We’re here to help! Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team at the Ventura Counseling & Wellness Center today.
