Yin Yoga is a functional style of yoga that provides a range of benefits, including nourishment of your entire fascial system (joints, ligaments, bones and all the deep connective tissue in the body). Regular practice can strengthen these systems, enhancing range of motion and mobility. Because of the quiet nature of the practice, activation of the parasympathetic nervous system and stress reduction enhance your wellbeing. In Nicole’s classes, ansanas (poses/shapes) are practiced with 3 principles: 1. Finding your edge. Not your end-range of motion, but the first stopping point where you feel stress to the targeted area(s); 2. Commit to stillness, listening to your body and your thoughts; 3. Hold for time. Longer held poses of 3-5 (or more) minutes provide immense benefits to your body and mind. Props are available to aid in finding your personal edge for each pose; this differs from a restorative class in that the props aid in appropriately stressing the targeted tissue and ensuring you can hold for time. They are not used to fully support and take away any sensation. Nicole starts and ends each class with centering and relaxation practices, which may include meditation and/or breath work. You’ll leave this Yin class, pleasantly relaxed and energetically balanced such that you can move back to a more yang (active) state or go into full rest.
