Yin Yoga is similar to restorative yoga in that it consists of relaxed postures held for several minutes. Yin, however, has the added emphasis of targeting joints and connective tissue, which are common areas of injury that tend to decrease in mobility over time.
By gently stressing and stretching connective tissues, a Yin Yoga practice also serves as a sort of needle-free acupuncture session, facilitating the flow of Chi or Prana through the body’s meridians and strengthening the link between body, mind, and spirit.
Yin Yoga is simultaneously calming and invigorating, provides an excellent balance with other forms of yoga and exercise, and is effective in preparing practitioners for meditation.
It is appropriate for beginning and seasoned yogis alike, as all postures can easily be adapted to fit the individual.
In February, Kristin begins a series focusing on organ health and their associated emotions.
FEBRUARY 14
Yin Yoga and Internal Organ Health: Open your Heart
This week Kristin invites you to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a little self-love! Kristin's Yin/Restorative class on February 14 will benefit the heart, lungs, and intestines. Our lungs and intestines help us to partake of nutrients and eliminate waste; our hearts are at the center of our exploration into the body-mind. This class will focus on regulating the flow of chi through these organs, opening students into gratitude for the present moment and the joy of a healthy heart.
FEBRUARY 21
Yin Yoga and Internal Organ Health: Balance your emotions
This is the third week of Kristin’s series on the health of internal organs and the balancing of their associated emotions. On the 21st, Kristin’s Yin/Restorative class will focus on the health of the liver and gallbladder. When liver chi or prana is out of balance, an individual may become irritable, easily fluctuating along the spectrum of emotional highs and lows. This meditative class will emphasize being present with whatever emotions arise, utilizing breath and relaxed postures to increase gratitude and decrease inner tension.
FEBRUARY 28
Yin Yoga and Internal Organ Health: Free yourself from anxiety
While some degree of anxiety is normal for everyone, extreme feelings of nervousness or worry may be a sign of an imbalance in the flow of stomach and spleen chi. In the concluding class of a series on internal organ health, Kristin’s Yin/Restorative class will focus on the energetic health of the stomach and spleen, emphasizing the ways in which increased flow of chi or prana through their associated meridians can aid in feeling grounded, peaceful, and flexible in both body and mind.