Yin is the “Other Half”
Most exercise focuses on superficial muscles (yang), Yin is the
“Other Half” of your practice. Yin exercises the hidden half of the
body, the connective tissues: our bones, ligaments, both
intramuscular and 3-D web fascia, and tendons. In Yin Yoga, muscles
relax to open and work deeply into the connective tissues to
strengthen our bones (esp in lumbar spine) and other CT, helping to
improve and maintain our flexibility and mobility. Yin targets the
areas of lower back, thighs, spine, and hips, strengthening and
hydrating these critical areas. Restrictions of the body’s range of
motion lay 41% in muscles and 47% in connective tissues, so Yin
Yoga provides a powerful opportunity to restore and maintain the
body’s strength, flexibility, and fluidity, making it the perfect
complement to common yang exercise, including Vinyasa Yoga,
cycling, and running. Yin Yoga also regulates energy pathways,
balancing and promoting a healthy flow of energy throughout the
body, nourishing the body’s organs and steadying emotional states.
(Sagel Urlacher)