Yin Yoga

Yin yoga is a quiet and simple practice that consists of a series of long-held, passive, floor-based postures (“asanas”). The cabin is ideally suited to yin yoga with its warm floor (it has underfloor heating!) and natural setting in the garden. In the summer, come and listen to the birdsong as the sun sets; in the winter come and enjoy the cocooning effect of the dark sky above (there are large Velux windows in the ceiling) and warm floor below. There are plenty of props (bolsters, blocks, blankets) to support you in every asana to allow you to fully relax and let go.

The four main principles of yin yoga:

1. Find an appropriate edge: move slowly and gently into the asana; look for an appropriate amount of intensity; never stretch so far as to cause pain
2. Stillness: consciously try to release into the asana and to remain still without shifting position
3. Hold the position: you will be guided to stay in each asana between 3 and 5 minutes
4. Release with care: you will be encouraged to move slowly out of each asana and to really take notice of how your body feels

Benefits of a regular practice:

• calms and balances the mind and body
• can help reduce stress and anxiety
• helps to release tension held with the myofascial network of the body
• aids deeper relaxation
• can help restore joint mobility

Step into Yin: Relax and Restore

Our “Step into Yin” yoga class is a meditative, flowing form of yoga that encourages you to slow down by synchronising your movement to a slow, steady breath. Certain postures (asanas) are held within the sequence and transitions are broken down to help you focus on the balance of strength and flexibility required for each move. Connecting your movement to your breath encourages the practice of mindfulness or staying in the moment.

Step into Yin Yoga is for all ages and for all abilities. All levels of yoga practitioners can find their own personal challenges as they slowly and mindfully move through the series of movements. You will be encouraged to consider if, how and when an asana should be modified with plenty of props available to help ease your body into deeper stretches. While the basic structure of the class is geared towards a moderate level, you are welcome to make the class as gentle or as challenging as you like.