Beyond the sensation of physical release, Yin Yoga is an invitation to explore our inner landscape. In the stillness of a long-held pose, we can notice the movements of the mind, be present with what arises, without needing to follow every thought.

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.

Fascia adapts to patterns of tension and posture - that can be shaped by past emotions. The longer holds create space to notice and be present with yourself. As you settle in, the heaviness or the restriction can begin to fade, bringing a sense of release: as if something within is shifting….

Somatic movement is guided by an internal curiosity and sensation. It doesn’t have a specific look and can be anything from gentle micro-movement, swaying or a subtle adjustment. Why I integrate somatics into my Yoga classes…

One of the most profound yet often overlooked ways to restore balance and regulate our nervous system is through interoception—our ability to sense and interpret internal bodily signals.

According to TCM, sleep will occur once you are able to let go of your day. With Yin Yoga you can feed your Yin- side, nourishing Heart, Liver and Kidney systems to set the stage for deep, restorative rest.

Yin Yoga is an excellent practice for soothing the nervous system and inviting the body into its “rest and digest” state. Practice with me to slow down and give your overworked nervous system some rest.

Fascia is part of connective tissue and benefits from slow melting stretches - just as we practice in Yin Yoga. But is it all about fascia in Yin Yoga?

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?