Simply Happy
What is Yin?
Every mum needs a little yin in their lives!
The concept of Yin and Yang originates from ancient Chinese culture and represents the concept of dualism and balance. Yin is stable, nourishing, unmoving, soothing and calming– while Yang is changing, warm, invigorating and energising! Harmony is created through a balance of the two.
It’s easy to see the Yang component as a busy mum. Parenting changing and growing children is demanding, even chaotic at times! Many of us also live fast-paced, active lives that are full of scheduled commitments. While a lot of this is great, can you imagine how great some extra Yin energy would be??
Introducing Yin Yoga
When it comes to exercise, many people take a Yang approach like running, boxing, or fitness yoga varieties. Yin Yoga acts as a counterpart to help you round out your workouts or busy life. It’s a way to find balance and keep you centred.
As the name suggests, Yin Yoga is a slower, meditative practice. It encourages your mind and body to slow down through holding extended slow-moving yoga poses. Yin Yoga targets the deep connective tissues, bones, joints, fascia, and ligaments in the body. It also focuses on stretching and stimulating different acupressure points from Traditional Chinese Medicine. This leaves the body feeling rested and restored, but there are also great benefits for your mental health.
Yin Yoga allows your mind to be still and be present. While you breathe and stretch deeply, you create more space in mind and body. Typically when we experience discomfort, our bodies naturally become tense and we use our fight-or-flight response. Yin Yoga helps reroute the mind and slow the heart rate when we experience discomfort. Breath is an important component of Yin Yoga. It gives you something to focus on during any difficult or uncomfortable poses.
Starting your Yin Yoga practice
Don’t be put off if you’re new to yoga, Yin Yoga is suitable for everyone! There are always options with poses and even props for added support. Yin Yoga classes move very slowly, allowing you more time to listen to your body in each pose. The instructor will guide you through the movements and correct or support your movements for maximum benefits. Yin Yoga is a restorative practice. Injuries and conditions can be accommodated and even improved through Yin Yoga practice.
Yin Yoga is one of the easiest home activities to do. It requires very little equipment and can be done anytime, anywhere. It is offered in some gyms or studies, but you can easily do it from home! All you need is:
- A yoga mat
- Blanket
- Bolster (or rolled blankets)
- Yoga block (optional)
- A quiet place
- Online class or guide
Simply Happy offers online easy and affordable Yin Yoga videos to get you started. Simply create a quiet space and enjoy being guided through Yin Yoga practice. Take your time and listen to your body. Your mind and body will start to slow down and you will enjoy the benefits of more Yin.
