Yin Yoga is a slow-paced stretching practise that focuses on opening the smallest fibres between your joints. Yin Yoga is a physical practise of opening from the smallest points of closure, combined with a mental practise of observing our reactions when asked to slow down. Yin Yoga allows us to work on the flexibility of the deepest parts of our bodies and minds at a slow and deliberate pace. This practise increases the elasticity of our joints, which improves overall mobility, whether you’re practising yoga or going through life.
Needle Threading
Stretch your left arm out to the side, thread it underneath your right side of the body, and turn your left palm up. Place your left cheek on the mat, or a pillow or blanket underneath your chin. Adjust your right hand by moving it forward. Maintain your hips directly above your knees. Insert your lower shoulder into the mat. If your bottom shoulder blade is pressing against your ear, try consciously relaxing your shoulder to give yourself more room to soften into the support of the ground beneath you. and hold your breath for about 3 minutes.
Return to Tabletop and switch sides. Take a couple of Cat-Cow motions after both sides.
Sleeping Owl
Sleeping Owl From the Tabletop, lie on your stomach with your forehead on the mat. (If you need more space between your face and the mat for comfort, place a rolled-up blanket or block under your brow.) If your brow is floating off the mat and your neck is strained, a rolled-up blanket or block can help.) Turn your left palm up and slide your left arm underneath the right side of your body. Keep your brow on the mat. Extend your right arm forward and place your palm down. Relax your fingertips and notice how the palms of both hands feel spacious. Breathe for about 3 minutes here.
Pose for a Child with Praying Mantis Arms
Bring your big toes together and widen your knees as you sit your hips back from the tabletop for Child’s Pose. A block beneath your brow and/or your seat is an option. Extend your arms forward and turn your palms up. Bend your elbows and pray with your hands together at the base of your skull. Consider propping your elbows on blocks on the lowest or medium setting while resting your forehead on the mat for more sensation in your shoulders. Set aside 3–5 minutes for this. As you breathe, notice if you can wiggle your elbows slightly further forward after a while.
