03 Dec 2011, Posted by the sensually fluid yogini, Mitzi Connell
MON – Yin Yoga
Sterling Health & Wellness 5:45p Mondays **By Reservation Only**  Much of the yoga practiced in America is Yang in nature. It is active, creates heat in the body, and engages muscle strength. By contrast, Yin Yoga is slow and steady with a sense of calm and surrender. This does not translate into “easy.” A Yin Yoga class offers an entirely different type of challenge. Poses are held for a long period of time, targeting deep ligaments and connective tissues and most of the practice is done on the ground (very few standing poses). We will learn how to come into each posture with respect for your body. We will pay attention to the breath and allow it to guide you. We will then be still and allow muscles to soften, relax and allow gravity to deepen the posture, rather than using muscles to push further. The movement of a Yang practice causes energy to flow to the muscles. In a Yin practice, we want to move energy (qi) into the bones and joints. Finally, we will hold each posture for a period of time. By doing so, energy is coaxed deeper into the body and the organs which can have a profound healing effect. We will focus on the breath and turn our attention inwards. Holding the poses for longer periods of time helps to develop surrender and gain a willingness to “just be” in an uncomfortable situation. |
