Fascia thrives on variety. Yin Yoga gently stretches larger areas of the body, while myofascial release works more specifically. Different approaches, yet both speaking to the same system. Discover why combining them can support supple tissue, balanced tension and a deeper shift into rest and digest.

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) instead accumulate more and more? 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. Yin Yoga or Qigong deepen our connection to the earth element, a reminder to return to our center.

For over a decade, I practice and teach both Yin Yoga and Qigong and notice that students often think Yin Yoga comes from Chinese medicine. There is specifically the question whether our modern Yin Yoga comes from DaoYin. Let me give you an overview of the evolution from DaoYin to Daoist internal arts and the modern Yin Yoga we know today.

A Traditional Chinese Medicine reflection for Yin Yogis and Yin teachers, offering nuggets of wisdom to support class theming, self-reflection and heart-led teaching. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Fire element is the spark that allows us to truly meet ourselves, others and life with warmth and authenticity. Fire is the radiance of who we are when we dare to be seen.

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.

On a physical level, Yin Yoga is working on myofascia. This stimulates the meridians and the flow of energy and can be felt as sensation, an emotion being released or relaxation settling in. 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….