Yin Yoga is a passive practice and allows us to move in deeper into the “yin” tissues of our ligaments, fascia network, joints, and even our bones. In contrast, most forms of yoga asana are active and dynamic, working on the “yang” tissues. Generally, Yin is considered the stable, unmoving, hidden aspect of things; yang is the changing, moving, revealing aspect.
Yin Yoga exercises the pranic energy of the mind. Allowing ourselves to sink into a pose and breathe causes us to pause and see the mind at work. There are many amazing benefits to practicing Yin Yoga, my favorite is being able to step back and watch the thoughts flow.
Practicing Yin Yoga can be more of a challenge than a regular asana class, with long holds --at times quite long. These hold times provide space to witness, experience and let go. Yin is a practice of surrender and stillness, sharing the same goal of traditional asana - to become fully present to Life.
