Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga is a slow, deep yoga where postures are held for 3-5 minutes. It targets connective tissues (fascia, ligaments, tendons) and promotes deep flexibility, meditation, and letting go.
Updated
Overview
Yin Yoga is a contemplative style developed in the 1970s by Paulie Zink, then systematized by Paul Grilley and Sarah Powers. Postures are held 3-5 minutes in total muscular relaxation, targeting connective tissues rather than muscles.
Core Principles
- Finding the soft edge
- Stillness once positioned
- Duration of 3-5 minutes minimum
- Muscular relaxation
- Meridian stimulation
- Meditative holding
Main Indications
- Deep flexibility improvement
- Stress and anxiety reduction
- Complement to yang practices
- Fascial health and joint mobility
- Meditation preparation
- Chronic pain management
- Insomnia support
Session Structure
60-75 minutes, 6-10 postures held 3-5 minutes each with resting pauses between.
Contraindications
- Joint hypermobility
- Acute joint inflammation
- Recent fractures or surgeries
- Advanced pregnancy