Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Yin Yoga-Time for Discovery



Yin Yoga is passive yoga. There is no standing, there is no flow but there is deep stretching and connecting with the body.


In a Yin Yoga class, you will probably only do about fives poses. These poses are held for a longer period of time when compared to a traditional yoga class and last from two to five minutes. Don't get me wrong, its pretty intense to sit in a deep stretch. The cool thing is what goes on in the head while you are in the pose and the awareness the position brings with the body. Your body goes through several different emotions and sensations throughout the duration of the pose. Energy and tension is released and muscles are unlocked. I leave the class feeling lighter and taller.




Yin Yoga is a great juxtaposition to any intense workout routine such as running, biking, spinning, kick boxing, etc. It gives your body a change to work out any kinks or shortening of muscles that may have occurred during these exercises.


Some days you may be feeling tired and may not feel like a workout-I suggest trying Yin Yoga as a way to get some blood flowing.


The caveat is that Yin Yoga classes are only gaining popularity and are hard to find. What I suggest is trying your own version at home and hold some passive stretches. Light some candles and turn on calming music that will not distract.


While in the stretch, let your body relax into the position and release all tension in your shoulders and just let go. Focus on the breathe. When you come out of your stretch, do it so gently and take your time.


This is not a workout that will burn a lot of calories but this workout supports your other activities and is a way to show gratitude to your hard working body.

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