Historically yoga has been a means to still the mind to enter into deep states of meditation and bliss. That is mainly what is described in classic texts and has been passed on through the centuries. The majority of the poses originally described are sitting postures that allow the spine to extend, the hips to relax and the practitioner to remain still to experience the fifth, sixth, seventh and eight limbs of yoga – or Pratyhara, Dharana, Dyana and Samadhi. Each limb leads into the next. They can be translated from Sanskrit to English as sense withdrawal or turning the senses inward, one-pointed focus/ concentration, contemplation and finally a state of ecstasy or dissolution. Although Yin asana are not exclusively seated postures, they are more similar to how yoga originated than some of the other contemporary prevalent styles practiced in the U.S. and worldwide today. Remaining still, having an inward focus, reaching meditative states, deep calm and bliss are some of the similarities between Yin and classical yoga.
One of the most renowned Yin Yogis in the world is Paul Grilley. In Yin, we don’t stretch the joints, but the connective tissue that is centralized at the joints. “In general, a yin approach works to promote flexibility in areas often perceived as non-malleable, especially the hips, pelvis and lower spine… connective tissue responds best to a slow, steady load. If you gently stretch connective tissue by holding a yin pose for a long time, the body will respond by making them a little longer and stronger—which is exactly what you want.” In order to maintain a healthy range of motion, to have good mobility and comfort in the body, Yin is an excellent practice. It is nurturing to the body physically and considering all the aforementioned benefits, mentally and emotionally, too.
More about yin yoga When we Lengthen extremely tight tissues it can be uncomfortable, at this point we want to work deep with in, by using this time to focus on our breath work, the spiritual depth of Yin Yoga. Breathing and stretching cultivate Prana, prana cultivates strength,in the body that can be felt, it positively stimulates and relaxes our nevus system. A consistent Yin Yoga practice helps us to regain mobility and ease pain in the body, from being over worked, or due to aging, it applies gentle, healthy stress to our joints and gentle stretch to our connective tissues, which helps us regain strength and flexibility. Benefits of Yin yoga:
Targets connective tissues including fascia, bones, and joints
Reduces stress
Increases circulation
Balances internal organs and improves flow of prana