Yin Yoga

What is Yin Yoga?

Yin Yoga has its roots in Taoism and acupuncture.  The Taoists described the flow of energy (chi) in the body through pathways called meridians.  Exercises were developed in the form of Tai Chi and Qi Gong in order to harmonise this flow of chi through our bodies.

Yin Yoga is a practice of deeply listening to your body and learning to develop a sensitivity to the subtle cues your body gives you.  It is not about working to your maximum stretch.  Although many yin postures are based on classical yoga postures, the emphasis is on releasing muscles rather than on contracting them.  Learning to meditate and learning to breathe consciously can aid in balancing our emotions.  We become much better connected to the reactions within us and we learn to react with more control.  We learn to be less reactive in challenging situations and to create kinder, more empathetic reactions to ourselves.  Yin Yoga is suitable for everyone, especially Type-A personalities who find it hard to relax and switch off.

We hold regular Yin Yoga classes at the studio, see the timetable here.  We also hold regular, more in-depth workshops where you can really start to understand this powerful practice.