A Yin yoga class usually consists of a series of long-held, passive floor poses that mainly work the lower part of the body – the hips, pelvis, inner thighs, lower spine. These areas are especially rich in connective tissues.Connective tissue responds best to a slow, steady load. If you gently stretch connective tissue by holding a yin pose for a long time, the body will respond by making them a little longer and stronger – which is exactly what you want. Remember the principle of the exercise is to stress the tissue so the body will respond by strengthening it. BENEFITS OF A REGULAR PRACTICE Increases circulation and improves flexibility Calms and balances the mind and body Reduces stress and anxiety Releases fascia Encourages deeper relaxation Improves joint mobility Brings balance to the organs through meridian stimulation FOUR MAIN PRINCIPLES TO REMEMBER WHEN PRACTICING YIN YOGA Find an appropriate edge: Move slowly and gently into the pose, and look for an appropriate amount of intensity, never stretch so far as to cause pain. Stillness: consciously try to release into the pose, and to remain still, without shifting position. Hold the position: begin by holding for 1-3 minutes gradually progressing to 5 minutes or more. Come out of the pose gently and slowly.

The modern world is a hostile place for our bodies. In the old days, our ancestors had to walk, run and climb trees every day. They did not use chairs, cars, or computers. They were seated on the ground, they squatted regularly. We tend to forget how new our civilization is. And that's not necessarily what we're made for. Your job probably requires sitting for an extended period of time. Either drive to work or work from home. As the amount of stress and tasks increase, your shoulders start to sag. Slowly your back stiffens and your breathing becomes shallow. When you are seated, your back becomes rounded and your head is heavy. Your back hurts and your neck hurts. Back pain makes you move less. Then your back hurts even more. So you move even less. Etc. Little by little, the quality of your life decreases. These courses will give you the tools to break this vicious cycle and improve your life. The world is as it is. So you can't just walk all day. We still have to do our job, we still have to sit for long periods of time. But there is still a lot to do! During yoga classes with me, you will learn how to sit properly to protect your back effortlessly while you work. You will learn how to stand correctly so that your body gets a stable base. You will learn how to lie down well to allow your body to rest. With various yoga poses, you will strengthen your muscles and improve body alignment. You will learn to open your chest and breathe easier. You will learn to practice safely and efficiently. And very importantly, you will also learn how body and mind influence each other. You will get the tools to calm the restless mind and improve your quality of life. The practice of yoga is a holistic practice. Therefore, not only your back, but your whole body and mind will be transformed. Whether you have never tried yoga before (or any other activity) or are already an experienced yoga practitioner, all can benefit from learning and deepening this particular approach.