My Definition of Yin Yoga

Today we have a shorter episode where I talk about defining Yin Yoga. It's a practice that's not always easy to describe, and since we've been talking about Yin with some of our recent podcast guests, it seemed worth taking the time to break this down! I will take you through my detailed definition of Yin Yoga, which I have crafted over years of practice and teaching. This definition is what I use in my Yin Yoga Teacher Trainings: "Yin Yoga is a meditative practice in which yoga poses are held for several minutes at a time. Practiced with the muscles disengaged, the gradual stretches of Yin Yoga allow us to enhance the healing flow of energy (Chi) through the body's connective tissues. Practicing in a 'Yin-like' way allows the nervous system to relax its habitual holding, which results in improved flexibility. Embodying Yin poses consciously, we cultivate interoceptive awareness, or mindfulness in the body." There's a lot to unpack in here, so listen in for some nuances and insights about the Yin Yoga practice - including some differences between Yin and Restorative, and the affirmation that yes, we DO use props (like blankets, bolsters) in Yin Yoga. To connect further with me (Addie), check out my website movedtomeditate.yoga the Yin Yoga Poses + Props 8-hour course mentioned in this episode at https://movedtomeditate.yoga/onlinecourses/ my upcoming Fall term of livestream yoga classes (mentioned at the beginning of the episode) at https://movedtomeditate.yoga/livestream-classes/ and/or follow me on Instagram @addie_movedtomeditate!