What is YIN yoga?

• Yin yoga is a relatively new form of yoga that in this century is becoming more important in terms of body awareness and healing

• It is the opposite of yang

• It is yoga for the connective tissue, ligaments, bones and joints, rather than the muscles. Yin specifically targets the area of hips, pelvis, and lower spine

• There is no muscular engagement

The postures are specifically designed to target the connective tissue. To stretch connective tissue, the overlying muscles must be relaxed. If the muscles are tense, the connective tissue won't receive the proper stress. When those muscles are completely inactive and quiet, there will be no talking or fidgeting. The practice encompasses long held, static stresses of the deep connective tissues allowing them to be remodeled. In each posture, the connective tissue is either stressed, compressed or sheared/twisted. Connective tissue is very plastic in nature and requires long holds for any stretch to occur. It can be somewhat challenging due to the long duration of the postures. It is not a practice that is meant to be ‘comfortable.’ Ultimately the practice will allow for a balance between striving and letting go. It is an invitation to listen to the body.

Who would benefit from a Yin Yoga practice?

• Clients who can sit on the floor with relative ease

• Internal and/or external connective tissue dysfunction is a hallmark part of your presentation- ie. Vestibulodynia, chronic prostatitis, bladder pain syndrome, chronic back pain

• People who require a stillness practice yet finds complete stillness, like guided meditation, difficult

• Poor flexibility around the hips, low back and groin

• Anyone who has an interest in pursuing a gentle yoga practice that will bring about significant results

To book a private one-on-one session with Amber, contact us at info@allthingspelvic.com or 519-222-2402.