Most of us are aware of the ancient Chinese principles of yin and yang - two opposite forces in harmony and balance. Yang represents the masculine principle and qualities such as dynamism, heat and action. On the other hand, the feminine principle of yin represents stillness, coolness, passivity and "being".
Anything in life, including yoga or other forms of movement, can be classified as yin or yang according to their inherent qualities. There are styles of yoga (Bikram or Ashtanga for example) that are more yang-like, with their focus on strength and heat-building, dynamic movements. Yin yoga however, is completely different, with an emphasis on long-held poses done on the floor and the cultivation of mindfulness and inner peace. I have found yin yoga to be a truly transformative practice, here are 5 reasons to give it a try:
1. It will enable you to deal with the stresses of everyday life.
Western culture is a very "yang culture", with its emphasis on go-getting, striving and achieving. While certainly useful for realizing external success and achievement, the downside is that it can lead to stress, burn-out and mental health issues. We must remember to balance a yang-based life with yin qualities as well, such as taking time to slow down, be still and relax deeply. A regular yin yoga practice is a great counter-balance to a fast-paced life.
2. It will dissolve chronic tension stored in your body.
If you have ever spent too long at your computer and felt stiff and sore in your shoulders after, then you know what physical tension feels like. We often think these knots occur in the muscles of our body, but actually they form in the connective tissue or fascia. One of the main benefits of yin yoga is that it works directly on the fascia and the long-held poses allow a deep release of any tightness and a feeling of ease and lightness with regular practice.
3. It will help you to shift gears from "doing" to "being".
Each pose in yin yoga is held from a minimum of 3 minutes up to 8 minutes, so you are spending long periods in stillness, focusing on the breath and the sensations in the body. This can seem strange if you are not used to slowing down, but gradually you will be able to shift gears and surrender, and your body and mind will be able to relax deeply. It is a great introduction to more formal types of meditation as well.
4. It will balance other exercise programs.
Most forms of exercise such as swimming, walking, jogging and gym work-outs can be considered yang in nature due to their focus on dynamism, strength and endurance. While necessary for health and fitness, they may also lead to joint damage, injury and tightness in certain areas. Yin yoga release these tight areas and further reduce the risk of injury by improving both flexibility and your natural awareness of your body and it's limitations.
5. It will change your attitude to life for the better.
Arguably the most wonderful effect of a regular yin yoga practice is how it can gradually improve your attitude to your life in general. You will develop patience, acceptance and compassion towards your body during the class, and these same qualities will also arise in your daily life more as well. From becoming more understanding with difficult people who normally irritate you to being more compassionate and accepting of yourself, yin yoga will transform your way of seeing and being with the world.
Anything in life, including yoga or other forms of movement, can be classified as yin or yang according to their inherent qualities. There are styles of yoga (Bikram or Ashtanga for example) that are more yang-like, with their focus on strength and heat-building, dynamic movements. Yin yoga however, is completely different, with an emphasis on long-held poses done on the floor and the cultivation of mindfulness and inner peace. I have found yin yoga to be a truly transformative practice, here are 5 reasons to give it a try:
1. It will enable you to deal with the stresses of everyday life.
Western culture is a very "yang culture", with its emphasis on go-getting, striving and achieving. While certainly useful for realizing external success and achievement, the downside is that it can lead to stress, burn-out and mental health issues. We must remember to balance a yang-based life with yin qualities as well, such as taking time to slow down, be still and relax deeply. A regular yin yoga practice is a great counter-balance to a fast-paced life.
2. It will dissolve chronic tension stored in your body.
If you have ever spent too long at your computer and felt stiff and sore in your shoulders after, then you know what physical tension feels like. We often think these knots occur in the muscles of our body, but actually they form in the connective tissue or fascia. One of the main benefits of yin yoga is that it works directly on the fascia and the long-held poses allow a deep release of any tightness and a feeling of ease and lightness with regular practice.
3. It will help you to shift gears from "doing" to "being".
Each pose in yin yoga is held from a minimum of 3 minutes up to 8 minutes, so you are spending long periods in stillness, focusing on the breath and the sensations in the body. This can seem strange if you are not used to slowing down, but gradually you will be able to shift gears and surrender, and your body and mind will be able to relax deeply. It is a great introduction to more formal types of meditation as well.
4. It will balance other exercise programs.
Most forms of exercise such as swimming, walking, jogging and gym work-outs can be considered yang in nature due to their focus on dynamism, strength and endurance. While necessary for health and fitness, they may also lead to joint damage, injury and tightness in certain areas. Yin yoga release these tight areas and further reduce the risk of injury by improving both flexibility and your natural awareness of your body and it's limitations.
5. It will change your attitude to life for the better.
Arguably the most wonderful effect of a regular yin yoga practice is how it can gradually improve your attitude to your life in general. You will develop patience, acceptance and compassion towards your body during the class, and these same qualities will also arise in your daily life more as well. From becoming more understanding with difficult people who normally irritate you to being more compassionate and accepting of yourself, yin yoga will transform your way of seeing and being with the world.
About the Author:
Sharee James is a certified naturopath and a yoga and meditation instructor. Try a short "taster" yin yoga class and experience the benefits of yin yoga for yourself!