Yin Yoga
Still Yoga (yin) is a slower paced style of yoga with more floor stretching poses held for longer periods of time (typically 2 - 5 minutes). Yin yoga poses apply moderate stress to the connective tissues, the tendons, fascia, and ligaments, with the aim of increasing circulation in the joints and improving flexibility. They are also designed to improve the flow of qi, (energy) to run through the meridians (channels) of the body, as used in Chinese Medicine.
The combination of long held stretches and bringing our attention to sensations gets us out of our heads and into our bodies - and the world around us. Yin Yoga is quite meditative in nature and aims at finding stillness and cultivating awarenss of one's inner silence. Although it is still, it can still be challenging to find stillness of body and mind in an uncomforable asana.
Suitability: all ages and levels (as long as you are comfortable in seated positions for long periods of time), not recommended if injured; in the first trimester of pregnancy or after giving birth (before your doctor's check-up and approval).