12/08/2024
The power of Yin
Believe it or not, several years ago I did not like the practice of yin yoga. I found it way too slow, boring and seemingly pointless. Much of the flexibility benefits could be derived from a traditional hatha practice so why dedicate a whole practice to this aspect? Seemed like a waste of time right?
I was drawn to the more dynamic vinyasa styles. I loved the power, the challenge, the sweat, all while staying present in the breath, and maintaining a calm mind. I just loved that physicality. And don’t get me wrong, I still love that. It is still a huge part of my personal practice
But, inevitably, as we travel our yoga journey, our bodies change, our minds change and our practice evolves
The yin penny dropped for me when I really embraced the core principals of yin
Find your edge (sensation/resistance/manageable discomfort )
Be Still. Settle and relax ( allow ) into the pose
Time in the pose
To seek your edge, that place of resistance that is a little uncomfortable, to surrender and lean into it, to stay connected to that slightly yucky feeling, as it fades leaning in a little further, finding it again, staying there for a period of time, not seeking to be out of the moment, that takes courage. Observing all that comes up, physically, mentally, emotionally, without judgement, accepting yourself, that takes compassion.
Resistance is a learned, conditioned, fear based reaction that begins in the mind, moves into the emotional body and finally lodges in the physical body. It gives rise to the need to control. On our yin mat we let go of the need to control and work with our whole being in an ongoing fluid process of meeting and dissolving resistance. Is it any wonder that, after an hour of this amazing practice, we feel and look so at peace 😊So much has just been worked out on the mat
The point of yin is not about what the pose looks like on the outside, how close your can get your lizard to the floor, whether it looks like a low lunge or the proverbial lizard flat out drinking. It’s all about what you’re feeling, physically, mentally, emotionally while there.
The depth of the pose isn’t measured by it’s outward appearance
Are you at your edge? As you’re edge shifts, are you surrendering into it until you find it again? Are you accepting yourself in each and every moment, each and every breath? If the answer is “Yes” then you are deep deep deep into the pose, into the practice of courage and compassion. As you hold this space for yourself the inevitable result will be more ease of body and mind.
In our modern world of convenience, we are always seeking and finding new ways to be more comfortable. This brings with it habits that adversely impact us, physically, mentally and emotionally.
Yin is a practice of sitting with discomfort, a truly empowering practice
This is my personal take on yin. It is why I see yin as such a powerful, beautiful practice and why I love teaching it.
