Eastern traditions believe that we are all a combination of yin and yang energy: yin being the mellow, moon, female energy; yang being the male, sun, aggressive energy. These two qualities are innate in every person we meet, every activity we undertake, even in the foods we eat. The whole world lies on a continuum of yin to yang. To be in balance, ultimately, the key is to strive for a middle ground.
In our driven Western culture, however, we tend heavily toward the yang. Qualities such as ambition, success, being in physical shape and acquiring material possessions are all valued in our society, and these same qualities drive us toward the yang side of our composition. It stands to reason that, in order to be in balance, we need to cultivate more yin energy in our lives.
Yin yoga is a great tool to recalibrate your more mellow side and find a calm sense of center. Although all types of yoga are popularly considered to be relaxing, mellow activities in the first place, the hatha styles that many of us practice (for example power yoga, vinyasa, flow, ashtanga, Bikram) are about as far to the yang side of the spectrum as asana can get. We hope to relax and unwind, but also to build strength, stamina, discipline and focus. For a lot of us, yoga is primarily about getting in shape and even losing weight.
Yin, on the other hand, involves long holds held in passive, simple yoga postures. Most of the asanas practiced in the yin style are reclined or prone poses that require very little strength or stamina. Bolsters, blocks, blankets and straps are used to support the body so that a high level of flexibility is not required.
Yin Yoga versus Restorative Yoga
Because of the practice of long holds in passive postures and the use of props, yin yoga is sometimes mistakenly considered a type of restorative yoga, but there is an important distinction. Restorative yoga’s intent is to rest the body. Period. Yin yoga, on the other hand, goes deeper into muscle and connective tissue and changes the physical body on a cellular level.
Although the poses themselves are passive and require little physical strength or stamina, the long holds and deep muscle stretch can result in increased flexibility and a release of toxins that are bound up in cells. (Yinyoga.com gives an in depth description of the practice, medical benefits and philosophy behind yin yoga.)
Why Try Yin Yoga?
Much like massage or a hot bath, yin yoga relaxes the body but also nurtures the mind and soul. The truly soulful effects of an hour or two spent in simple, unengaged yoga poses contribute to greater health and relaxation. Because it imparts a deep sense of rest to the body, it can actually leave you in a more energized state.
Committing to cultivate your yin side is anything but a waste of time. It’s a vital component of becoming a whole, healthy, happy person.
Yin Yoga Resources
For more about yin yoga, read “Yin Yoga, Breathing Through Pain” by Laura Susan Henry.
A partial list of yin yoga teachers in the U.S. (For more classes near you, try Googling “yin yoga” in your city.)
Two of the most well-known yin yoga teachers in the world, Sarah Powers and Paul Grilley, have web sites that offer information about yin yoga, calendars of workshops and events around the world, and links to purchase DVDs and books for a home practice.
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