ADVERTISEMENT
While all yoga practices trace their roots to India, a number of yoga styles that blend a variety of influences have emerged in the United States. One style growing in popularity is referred to as “yin yoga.” Yin yoga blends the Taoist meridian and acupuncture theories of China with the yogic and tantric theories of India, according to Paul Grilley. Grilley trained with Paulie Zink and Dr. Hiroshi Motoyama, a yogi, Shinto priest and scientist from Tokyo with expertise in both Indian and Chinese medicine.
From a Taoist perspective, muscles and blood are yang and connective tissues and joints are yin, explains Grilley. Yoga practices that focus on muscular movements are therefore more yang in nature. Practices that emphasize the connective tissue of the hips, pelvis and lower spine are more yin.
In yin yoga, postures are held anywhere from 3 to 10 minutes at a time. On a physical level, passively holding postures allows for more release in the joints. Yin yoga encourages meditation; enhances the meridians, or nadis, in the yogic system; and is believed to support the organs, strengthen the immune system and lead to emotional well-being and balance.
To learn more about yin yoga, visit www.paulgrilley.com; www.sarahpowers.com; www.pauliezink.com; or www.yinyoga.com.
When you buy something using the retail links in our content, we may earn a small commission. IDEA Health and Fitness Association does not accept money for editorial reviews. Read more about our Terms & Conditions and our Privacy Policy.
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Articles
United to Inspire the World to CHANGE
Dear IDEA Fitness Community, IDEA Health & Fitness Association’s staff and members are united in opposing prejudice, bigotry and racism. We denounce all acts and intents associated with these affronts to…
IDEA World 2020 – Event Status Update (4/14/2020)
Updated: 4/14/2020 It is with a very heavy heart that we must cancel the 2020 IDEA World Convention, July 8-12, in Anaheim, CA. Despite making…
IDEA Editorial Staff
Editor in Chief: Sandy Todd Webster Executive Managing Editor: Katherine Watson Executive Editor: Joy Keller Production Editor: Judy Minich Publications Assistant: Sarah Kolvas Art Director:...
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Stay up tp date with our latest news and products.