Yin Yoga was popularized in the 80s by an American named Paul Grilley, who brought together elements of ancient Chinese Taoist practices, Hatha Yoga, and Western medicine. Although this practice was developed recently, it still holds a traditional essence.

Yin is a simple practice that utilizes gentle, seated Yoga postures; but it is often challenging, since we hold each pose for at least 3 minutes. We sit in the postures to stimulate the connective tissue of the body, or fascia. Our fascia stretches all across our muscles, organs, and joints; and this is where the Chinese system of meridians is said to be housed. When the fascia is manipulated and stimulated in Yin, so are these energetic meridians. So where we feel tightness in our physical body, there is an energetic blockage that is intimately connected. This practice is for us to sit still for long enough to reach these blockages and have energy (chi) move through them.

As we open the deep tissues of the body, emotion arises to the surface. We practice patience and non-reactivity as we sit with our emotions for us to truly see, feel, and release the trapped energy.

The true essence of Yin is Acceptance. We emphasize acceptance of where we are physically in each posture; therefore metaphorically we may find acceptance of where we are in life.

As instructors, we are here to guide you during these moments of intensity to help you find comfort in the discomfort, to breathe, to stay, and to release. We always offer modifications for pregnancy, ailments, and injuries.

This is a practice for every body! Please join us anytime to experience this medicine for yourself.