Yin Yoga, Myofascial Release and Myoyin: A Pathway to Holistic Health
Aug 29, 2024
Hi there Yinsters
Yin Yoga is a form of Hatha Yoga, which is one of the most commonly practiced forms of yoga in the West today. Rooted in physical practice,. Hatha Yoga originated around the 10th century C.E. Designed to prepare the body for more advanced practices,. Such as meditation and insight. Unlike dynamic, active yoga forms that work the muscular “yang” tissues. Yin Yoga focuses on the deeper “yin” tissues. Like ligaments, joints, and deep fascial networks. Even reaching the bones. This balanced approach helps optimise health by exercising all of the body's tissues. Yin is not superior to yang. We need both.
A typical Yin Yoga class consists of passive poses held for two to five minutes. Sometimes more. Targeting areas rich in connective tissue. Such as the hips, pelvis, inner thighs, and lower spine. While the lower body is the primary focus. Yin Yoga can also address the upper body. Initially yin classes only the lower body. As the upper body has fewer connective tissues but still benefits from the practice.
"Myofascial" refers to both muscle tissue and the connective tissue surrounding it (fascia). Hence muscle and Myofascia are often used interchangably. Myofascial Release (MFR) is another powerful therapeutic technique that complements Yin Yoga. Used to relieve skeletal muscle immobility. Pain by removing adhesions in th fascia. MFR is effective in treating chronic pain disorders. I used it to reduce the pain I get due to the osteoarthritis in my big toe. I also use it to activate lazy muscles (ie glutes) before a workout. I also use it to reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). It has been useful for me to create more efficient breathing patterns. This helps switch on the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). This is our rest and digest system. I often target specific trigger points at night to help induce sleep. This can also reduce teeth grinding,
Self-myofascial release (SMFR) allows individuals to practice MFR on their own. Either independently or in a class setting. One innovative approach that combines Yin Yoga with SMFR is called Myoyin. A term coined by my teacher Jo Thee. This technique uses balls, such as those from Yoga Tune Up, to enhance the benefits of both practices. I also use foam rollers (only the soft kind) for a broad sheer to the fascia. This is beneficial too. But it doesn't target trigger points and not portable as using the balls. I have used them in the car, in bed, on the plan, airport lounge and the train!
With six different teacher trainings in Yin Yoga. Two courses in MFR. Plus being qualified as a Yoga Tune Up instructor. I am passionate about sharing these practices for improved physical and mental well-being. If you're interested in purchasing Yoga Tune Up balls, you can find them here [insert link].
These tools and techniques allow you to nurture your body. From the deep yin tissues. To the muscular yang tissues, promoting health and vitality.
I'm excited to announce I will be launching 2 online courses on this very topic.
One specifically for practitioners and one teacher training.
Stay tuned!
Liz
