Yin Yang Yoga is a style of yoga that blends two different styles of yoga into one practice. It combines the benefits of passively holding yoga poses with more dynamic sequences and standing postures. Yin and Yang are the Taoist concepts that describe the two relative qualities present in everything. Yin is more internal, passive, cooling, and downward, while Yang is more external, dynamic, warming, and upward.
In Yin Yang Yoga, Yin Yoga is a slower practice where poses are passively held for longer, working on the deep, dense (Yin) connective tissues and joints in the body. Yang Yoga, in contrast, refers to a more active practice that develops muscular strength, stamina, and flexibility. Yang styles of yoga are those with rhythm and repetition like Vinyasa Flow.
A Yin Yang Yoga class may start with Yin Yoga to calm the mind and work on the joints before the muscles are warm. Alternatively, the class may start dynamically (Yang) and end with longer held poses to relax and calm the nervous system. The sequencing of the class can have a powerful effect on energy levels and how one feels after class.
Overall, Yin Yang Yoga is a balanced practice that mixes the dynamic and more restful elements of yoga, providing both physical and spiritual balance.
