Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga is also known as fascia yoga and is a modern style of Yoga. It is a passive style of yoga that involves the relaxation of the muscles and works with meridians as found in the concept of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). Many aids such as pillows and blankets are used to let go of the muscles tension completely. The restorative yoga style helps you to balance the active working day and lifestyle of our society.
As always, the focus is on working with the breath – here we address the tissue layers, the fascia. Research has really taken off here in recent years and there is a great deal of correlation between neck and back pain and the fascia. The network of fascia is interconnected throughout the body, so that a “sticking of the fascia” in one part of the body can have an effect on a completely different part of the body.
The Yin Yoga practice is embedded in an initial meditation and a final relaxation. The positions, called “forms” in Yin Yoga, are held for a few minutes so that the muscles receive a clear signal to let go.
Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa Yoga, also called “Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga” is, unlike Yin Yoga, mostly perceived as a sport. The yoga style in Vinyasa is creative and flowing. Vinyasa Yoga is suitable for someone who is looking for movement, strength and relaxation at the same time.
In Vinyasa Yoga we work on our muscles and learn what it feels like to relax. Since I respond to the needs of my students*, I always offer modifications.
In Vinyasa Yoga movement and breath are combined. This has the goal to focus the mind and create a unity of body, mind and soul. My Vinyasa classes usually include a guided meditation (moving or still) and breathing exercises (Pranayama). You will never miss out on the final and total relaxation of the body towards the end of the class: Savasana.
