A Saturday afternoon class of slow, yummy, melty Yin!
Join Grace on a inner journey, exploring the 5 elements through the practice of Yin.
Saturday 24th and 31st May, 7th, 14th and 21st June
Yin is a slow-paced, nourishing, inward practice.
I have chosen not to call this offering Yin ‘yoga’ as it is commonly known, as the energetics of the practice are based upon Taoist concepts and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which is completely separate to Vedic philosophy and the energetics from a Hatha yoga perspective.
Nonetheless, practicing Yin through the lens of the five element theory has enriched my life enormously, and whilst I am by no means an expert, I would love to hold space for others to experience this medicine.
What is the five element theory?
In TCM, everything in the universe from the macro to the micro is made up of the five elements, which correspond to a season - water (winter), wood (spring), fire (summer), earth (late summer) and metal (autumn).
These five unique energies also relate with different meridians (energetic pathways), organs, emotions and biological functions.
My hope is that these classes will help harmonise these energies and soothe your nervous system.
What to expect?
Relaxing music will play as we descend into the 75 minute practice. I’ve allowed for 5-10 mins either side, to chat, recalibrate and pull an oracle card.
The practice will consist of a series of postures on the floor, inspired by yoga asanas, which are held at about a 6 or 7 out of 10 in intensity for 3-5 minutes, sometimes longer.
Each posture is then followed by a rebound, often resembling savasana (lying on your back), or in prone rebound (lying on your tummy).
Bolsters, blocks, blankets and cushions are utilised in most postures for your comfort.
There will be moments of inner-enquiry and moments of spaciousness, so you can really connect with your body and hear what’s alive for you.
I will give Reiki as and when I can. Sound healing will be incorporated intuitively.
What is Yin?
You are probably all familiar with the infamous Yin & Yang symbol.
Yin and Yang can only be explained in relation to one another.
Yang is masculine, solar energy, firing us up into action creating physical stability, a drawing together.
Yin is feminine, lunar energy, what is least touched by the light, what is closest to the earth, deepest, coldest.
By entering stillness, we can access the lunar aspect of the psyche, allowing us to connect with Self and observe our deepest shadows.
How does it work?
When we load bodyweight targeting the yin tissues (fascia, tendons, ligaments) through long-held poses, we also tension and compress our meridian channels (our energetic pathways). In doing so, gross muscles can switch off and the deepest holdings of our being are given the space they rarely receive.
When we rebound, fluid flow rushes back to these targeted areas, hydrating the connective yin tissues, and fascia has laid down its spider web like fabric to better hold & support us.
Where Qi was once blocked can begin to flow again, and a state of rest & digest, of wholeness, can be restored.
Over time, this practice can help improve mobility, flexibility, freedom & support.
Please note
We will have to modify your practice if you are hyper mobile or pregnant (at any stage), so please let Grace know in advance.
This class is completely beginner friendly, and partiularly suited to those of you in need of some inner nourishment.
When? Saturday 24th and 31st May, 7th, 14th and 21st June
2:30pm - 4pm
Where? Upstairs at St Martins Community Centre
Cost? £25 please pay in cash on the day or via bank transfer
What to bring? A thick blanket or extra mat so there is extra padding underneath you.
Bolsters, blocks and blankets can be provided but feel free to bring your own. Bring any cushions, socks or things to keep you cozy.