Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga is a style codified in the United States in the late 1980s by Paul Grilley, who crystallised its principles in the book Yin Yoga: Outline of a Quiet Practice. 

Characteristics of Yin Yoga

This style‘s characteristic is a slow and fluid rhythm, which has a deep effect on the mind and the body. Unlike the “Yang” styles – such as Iyengar and Ashtanga – which are more dinamic and focused on muscle stimulation, this type of Yoga works mainly on the connective tissues. Yin Yoga aims to stimulate and regulate the free flow of Prana between the chakras in the body, to heal meridians and organs and to calm down the all system, giving a general state of well-being and stillness.

Objectives of this style

Ligaments, tendons, tissues and bones are restored from within, strengthened by the new energies that will flow due to the postures (asana) and the breathing techniques (pranayama) associated with them.The lengthening and loading of the muscles allow the nourishment to be delivered to each body district: the result will be the releasing of tensions and blocks that prevent a free flow of energy and vibrations throughout the body. Yin Yoga focuses its attention on the Present moment, giving main importance to self-observation and self-listening. The concentration is directed entirely to the correct execution of the poses, to bring awareness on the inner sensations and perceptions.The state of meditation induced by the asanas allows you to get in touch with each inner movement: breath, mind and heart are connected, letting the authentic Self come to light, free from archetypes and negative influences.

Poses and benefits of Yin Yoga

In the practice of Yin Yoga we have three basic steps for the correct practice of each single position:

1. Adopt the position gradually
   The Asanas should not be reached by physical effort, but rather the body should be opened and relaxed spontaneously, until the correct setting is adopted

1. Stand still
   Once you reach the right balance between tension and relaxation, you must remain still, putting the body in a position to adapt and possibly increase the range of lengthening

1. Hold the asana for the right time
   Each position is maintained from 3 to 5 minutes, however, for beginners, the initial goal is 60 seconds.

The psychophysical benefits of this style make it an ideal practice for all those who wish to achieve a state of inner calm, together with flexibility and physical health.

Yin Yoga, for its regenerating qualities, is particularly advisable:

• before bedtime;
• during season changes;
• in particularly stressful times.

It is also suitable in the cold, with the muscles at rest, which allow to work at its best on connective tissues and act effectively on the joint capsules.

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