Yin & Restorative Yoga Immersion (3wk)

A deep immersion into the therapeutics of Yin & Restorative Yoga

During this comprehensive short immersion we will look at ways to bring balance to the physical body using simple supported and held postures in order to bring the nervous system into the parasympathetic mode (ie relieve stress). Each class will provide simple and effective techniques such as pranayama (breathing exercises), interoceptive exercises, yoga nidra (deep relaxation) and simple meditation that can be easily applied in daily life.

• Understand what fascia is and why conventional stretching is not always effective
• Have an idea that there are structural and energetic connections between seemingly very distant parts of the body and ways of working with them
• Make the connection between the quality of breathing and various restrictions/ tensions in the body and how to free physical tension using the breath
• Be familiar with an arsenal of simple Yin and Restorative postures and be able to use them at home
• Use basic mindfulness technique in postures
• Have a familiarity with Yoga Nidra and its benefits
• How to use ‘ball rolling’ to release tension and pain

This immersion will be perfect for anyone new to Yin & Restorative Yoga, or anyone interested in balancing their existent dynamic Yoga practice (or any athletic activity). Those who suffer from chronic stress, anxiety, insomnia, chronic fatigue, low energy, pain, and/or tension can also benefit greatly from this therapeutic approach to yoga.

About Restorative Yin Yoga

The essence of Yin and Restorative Yoga is surrender.

To balance the heat-building, dynamic, strengthening “yang” side of a Vinyasa Flow or Ashtanga Vinyasa practice, Yin and Restorative Yoga focus on postures that release tension and lengthen the muscles by the means of supported passive holding.

In a Yin style, poses are held 3-10 minutes per side in order to release the fascia (the 3-D connective tissue). The Restorative poses use many props (placed according to each individual body) and can be held for 10-15 minutes, but are essentially very similar to Yin. As well as Yoga, the practice draws upon techniques from MFR (Myofascial Release) and Structural Bodywork, as well as the energetics of the Traditional Chinese Meridians and acupressure points.

The elasticity of our connective tissue diminishes with physical activity and aging, which makes Yin essential for injury prevention and joint health. Since a Yin Yoga practice often includes several long, seated forward bending postures, it also restores energy and calms the nervous system. Restorative practice initiates deep relaxation of the body, mind and spirit.

Location

Exeter Yoga Workshop
King St Business Centre, 7-9 King St, Exeter, EX1 1BQ