Yin Flow

Increase circulation and restore

The Yin Flow is designed to gently stretch the body and increase circulation. The deep breath driven poses are known to apply moderate stress to connective tissue and tendons, which in turn increases circulation. Usually a Yin class will involve a handful of poses that will be held for longer periods of time: between 2-5 minutes.

A Yin Flow is a good way to rejuvenate sore muscles and recover from a hectic week. I like to add Tai Chi movements to get practitioners’ breath and movements synced up. Basic Tai Chi movements are a great way to warm up and get in the mood for a Yin Flow as it requires one to focus on moving with the breath.

The Yin Flow is also beneficial for those who are recovering from an injury — when practiced with proper guidance and modifications. So be sure to let me know if you are recovering from any injuries so I can give you specific modifications when applicable.

Props and meditation

When props are available, I will add Iyengar Yoga style modified stretches to enhance the experience for the students. Usually blocks, bolsters, blankets and straps come in handy when you are doing a Yin Flow. So, feel free to bring your own, if you want to get extra comfy. The idea of Yin is to use your breath to relax and ease your body deep into the poses.

The class begins with basic Pranayama techniques (breathing techniques) to set the tone. The pranyama techniques are designed to get the practitioner ready for an active meditation. By focusing on the breath, one is able to start cultivating internal awareness and let go outside concerns.

Since students hold postures for a longer period of time, I also get to do some adjusting and alignment work during the class. Also, learning how to use props to enhance your practice will make your asana experience more pleasant and safe.

Guided body scan and extended shavasana

Another key feature of my Yin flow is the guided body scan at the end, right before the extended shavasana. The guided body scan will help you let-go and relax tension in your joints and muscles to help you truly enjoy your shavasana (resting pose).

It’s not unusual for some practitioners to doze off during the body scan, but I really encourage you to try and make it through the body scan. The Yin flow is literally the opposite of the Power Flow. If you tend to be rather forceful and demanding with your body during your regular workouts, you’ll find the Yin Flow to be a bit challenging.

But once you realize how to work with your body using the breath, I’m sure you will start to enjoy the power of awareness and gentleness in your practice.