Releasing fascia can also free the flow of energy along our meridian pathways. We can weave myofascial release and acupressure into a deeply nourishing practice for the body-mind, nervous system & emotional regulation.

What happens when we do not return to center (=our earth)? You might have felt it before: overwhelm, worry, overreactive nervous system. In Oriental medicine, the Earth element is holding our center and it is responsible for digesting - both food and thoughts.

Ever wondered why Yin Yoga is called 'Yin'? Let’s look at the roots and influences from Oriental medicine that shape this deeply grounding practice.

As Yin Yoga teachers we have the opportunity to not only guide students through movement or shapes, but also to integrate seasonal wisdom for body, mind and soul. In spring we feel the upward momentum - the energy of the Wood element teaching us about vision and the decision to grow.

Cultivate Qi awareness with tools you can integrate in Yin Yoga classes: myofascial release, acupressure massage and tapping along the meridian pathways.

Each of the five main Yin organs of TCM houses a spirit. The five spirits are the ‘archetypes of our psyche’, allowing you to reflect on a psychological/ emotional level rather than solely on the physical level. They can be seen as a mirror to reflect and understand how you perceive the world.

We all embody all 5 elements but one element will be your most dominant one. Understanding the different aspects that make up each element and what best supports them can help you personally, but also as teacher of Qigong or Yin Yoga as you theme your classes.

The practice of Qigong is as a gentle exercise therapy with different movement styles, tapping, self-massage, acupressure massage, sound and meditation. The practice releases stress and tension from the physical body as well as from your mind so that the energy can flow freely.

Acupressure massage and Tapping can help us to feel into our energy levels, deepen our intention and harmonise our Qi. Try this short Yin Yoga practice to explore the effect of a Qi massage and acupressure in combination with soothing Yin Yoga.

What can we learn from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective in regards to autumn and our Yin Yoga practice?

Acupressure can influence the flow of energy in your body. Learn about two acu-points that can help you get ready for sleep and that can be used in conjunction with your Yin Yoga practice or by itself as a wind down routine.

Yin Yoga is a functional style of Yoga in which we try to primarily address our connective tissues, releasing muscular effort. This directs the stretch into the connective tissue along which meridians described by Traditional Chinese medicine are found. How can we inspire our Yin practice with TCM concepts?