Yin Yoga
Finding Strength in Softness
A practice with whole body benefits
Yin yoga invites you to pause, soften, and explore the quiet strength within. Rooted in traditions like Hatha yoga, Taoist yoga, Classical Chinese Medicine, and fascial science, this practice emphasizes stillness, interoception, and the transformative power of time.
This slow, floor-based practice gently stresses connective tissues—fascia, ligaments, and joints—through long-held postures. The benefits include:
Improved Mobility and Flexibility: Hydrating and elongating connective tissues.
Tension Release: Easing muscular tightness and reducing soreness.
Nervous System Support: Activating the parasympathetic “rest and digest” state.
Energetic Harmony: Aligning with energy channels and the Five Elements to support systems like digestion, sleep, and emotional balance.
The Lakeside Yin Approach to Yin Yoga
At Lakeside Yin, Yin yoga is more than a physical practice—it’s a pathway to reconnect with your body’s innate wisdom and align with the rhythms of nature. Each session incorporates the principles of Classical Chinese Medicine, exploring how Yin yoga supports the balance of the Five Elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—and harmonizes the body's energy channels.
You’ll be guided to adapt each pose to your body’s needs, embracing what feels sustainable and nourishing. During practice, it’s important to avoid sharp pain or numbness. If these sensations arise, I’ll suggest variations or modifications, or you can rest until you're ready to join the next shape.
A Practice of Self-Compassion
Yin yoga invites us to meet ourselves with curiosity and self-kindness. By settling into each pose with "middle effort" (about 50-70% of your range of motion), you allow the body to relax and release, creating space for both physical and emotional shifts.
Spending time with yourself in stillness can sometimes bring up unexpected emotions—and often, it doesn’t. Both experiences are completely valid. This practice is an opportunity to cultivate self-compassion, honoring your body and inner landscape as it is, without judgment.
No need to commit it all to memory—I’ll weave these principles into our practice. Together, we’ll explore the balance of strength and softness, the wisdom of your body, and the healing power of time.
At Lakeside Yin, Yin yoga goes beyond the physical. It’s a pathway to self-compassion, self-awareness, and alignment with the rhythms of nature.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long are poses held in Yin yoga?
Yin yoga shapes are typically held for 2–5 minutes, allowing time to relax into the pose and gently stress connective tissues, improving flexibility and energy flow.
Can I practice Yin yoga if I have injuries or chronic pain?
Yin yoga can be an excellent practice for individuals with injuries or chronic pain, as it focuses on gentle stress and relaxation. However, it’s essential to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider if needed. Kathryn provides variations and prop suggestions to support your unique needs.
What is the difference between Yin yoga and Restorative yoga?
While both styles are slow and calming, Yin yoga focuses on gently stressing connective tissues to lubricate joints, release tension, and support circulation and energy flow. Restorative yoga, on the other hand, emphasizes deep relaxation and uses props to fully support the body in restful poses. Both practices can complement each other beautifully and help relieve stress and support overall well-being.
What if unexpected emotions arise during Yin yoga?
While stillness can sometimes bring up unexpected emotions, it’s important to understand that emotions, or trauma, isn’t stored in one specific part of the body—it’s a complex experience held across the mind and body.
Yin yoga creates a unique opportunity to pause, tune into your body, and notice what’s present in the moment. This could be physical sensations, emotions, or even a sense of quiet. Whatever arises—whether it’s profound, subtle, or neutral—is welcome and valid. The key is to approach these moments with curiosity and compassion, allowing your body to guide the experience rather than forcing a particular outcome. This practice often cultivates self-compassion, both physically and emotionally. If emotions do surface, I invite you to gently acknowledge them and hold them without judgment, just as you would approach physical sensations during the practice. Yin yoga offers a safe space to honor your body’s innate wisdom and explore your inner landscape at your own pace. As your guide, I will hold space for you, set a tissue box nearby, and continue to lead the class unless you signal you need greater support from me.
