Active yoga is widely practiced, and usually, it’s the perfect remedy for our busy, stressed out lives. But sometimes, you need something deeper and quieter than a typical energizing sequence. Say hello to Yin yoga. It’s a less popular type of yoga, but it’s very effective in releasing muscle tension and calming fractured nerves. 

What is Yin yoga?

Yin yoga is thousands of years old. It uses far fewer postures than the many asanas you’re probably used to. These postures are more meditative in nature, and they work deep within the physical body.

Yin yoga and muscle tension

In Yin yoga, the poses work to reach deep tissues, like fascia and connective tissues. Why? Because these become more stiff and less flexible as we age. Our joints also become stuck and block the free-flow of energy throughout the body.

By practicing Yin yoga, you help to release the deep tension caused by stress, injury and inflammation. You also help to remove blocks that keep stagnant energy sitting in joints and deep within the body. 

It’s so important to do this quiet, restorative work. When we don’t address this tension, it can result in a loss of mobility and flexibility. Unfortunately, most of us don’t notice this problem until it’s too late. 

Soothe nerves with Yin yoga

In energizing yoga, you focus on being active. And for many of us, that’s the whole point. In our society, if we’re not “doing” something, it’s easy to think we’re being lazy or unproductive. 

Yin yoga is different. Here, we replace doing with being. You focus your attention inwards, and instead of being “busy”, you simply focus on resting and being. With deep breathing and deep stretching, you also activate the parasympathetic nervous system. And when this system is “turned on”, you feel much calmer. 

Who should do Yin yoga?

Everyone! But Yin yoga is especially powerful for people who lead sedentary lifestyles, or for people who feel burned out and need to reset.