Yin Yoga Podcast

S 6 | Ep. 4Interview with Gabrielle Harris (The Language of Yin)In this episode, I sit down with Gabrielle Harris, author of The Language of Yin, to talk about her journey in Yoga, the art of theming and sequencing classes, and what it really takes to find your own voice as a teacher. We get honest about the struggles new teachers face, the importance of practice and patience, and why it’s okay to start simple and build from there. Gabrielle shares her experiences bringing Yin Yoga to New Zealand, writing her books, and how she approaches teaching with creativity and compassion. We also touch on the challenges of using AI and scripts in Yoga, and why your own words matter most.Key Moments:0:00 – Introduction and welcome5:23 – Gabrielle’s background and how she found yoga18:45 – Theming, sequencing, and finding your own teaching style29:34 – Advice for new teachers and the value of practice39:34 – Gabrielle’s books and upcoming projects43:52 – Final thoughts and gratitudeWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast

S6 | Ep.3Yin Yoga for the Highly Sensitive: Understanding HSP and Creating a Nurturing Practice In this episode of the Yin Yoga podcast, I discuss being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) and why a Yin Yoga practice is ideally suited for us. I'll explain what it means to be highly sensitive, clear up common misconceptions, and share personal experiences from my own life. You'll get practical tips for self-care routines and ways to manage sensory overload. I also dive into how Yin Yoga can help HSPs regulate their nervous systems and why it's such a powerful practice for us. Whether you're a Yoga teacher who is an HSP, or you want to make your classes more accessible HSP's you'll find valuable insights and actionable advice to make your Yoga practice or classes more supportive and nourishing.for more on HSP: https://hsperson.comMy YouTube Music List: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXBJLHLAogEXPokmIKZwDcaBoCiN6Jqqm&si=WiHB03nwWDLezfBC00:00 Introduction to HSP and Yin Yoga00:50 Welcome to the Yin Yoga Podcast04:10 Teacher Training and Waitlist Information07:56 Understanding Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP)26:14 Personal Experiences and Challenges of HSP32:23 Understanding the HSP Experience34:57 Self-Care Strategies for HSPs35:53 Avoiding Overstimulation37:20 Exceptions to the Rule39:36 Tools for Managing Sensory Overload44:06 Daily Self-Care Routines49:39 The Importance of Yin Yoga for HSPs53:04 Teaching Tips for Yin Yoga Instructors59:59 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.YouTube playlist mentioned https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXBJLHLAogEXPokmIKZwDcaBoCiN6Jqqm&si=-tpOaOz0R0xqIW8uYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:See all episodes at a glanceAnatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast

S6| EP 2Podcast Episode Notes: Advanced Yin Sequencing – Beyond the BasicsIn this episode, we explore how to take your yin yoga sequencing to the next level. Learn how to adapt your classes for different times of day, seasons, and even days of the week. Perfect for teachers ready to move beyond the basics!If you are a newer teacher or still in the sequencing intimidated club, check out this episode: https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/sequencing-for-yin-yoga/Highlights:Sequencing for morning vs. evening classesSeasonal and elemental influences on class planningAdjusting for the energy of different daysTips for keeping your teaching freshHave questions or feedback? Leave a comment or connect via social media!Want to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcastYinYoga #YogaSequencing #YogaTeacher

S 6 | Ep.1 Yin Yoga & the Earth Element: The Center WithinIn this episode, I go into the earth element—how it’s viewed in Chinese medicine and Taoism, why it’s different from what you might have learned in your teacher training, and how you can thoughtfully bring this wisdom into your yoga practice. I also share one of my favourite earth-themed readings at the end!What’s Inside:The difference between “Chinese medicine” and “Traditional Chinese Medicine” (TCM)Why the earth element is more than just a season—it’s the centerThe OG (nomadic) view vs. the five-phase theoryEarth’s qualities, archetype, and correspondencesThe role of the spleen, stomach, and “Yi” (intention/thought)How to use (or not use) this knowledge in your classesA beautiful First Nations reading for earth-themed classesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction & welcome02:00 – What is the earth element in Chinese medicine?05:45 – The OG (nomadic) view: earth as the center09:01 – Earth’s qualities, archetype & correspondences10:41 – Spleen, “Yi,” and mental clarity18:03 – Stomach, digestion, and earth archetype21:55 – How to use this in your classes25:33 – My favourite earth-themed reading27:56 – Closing thoughts & next stepsWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcastSee all episodes at a glance

Announcements for Yin Yoga Pod regulars & Seasonal Wrap-Up In this episode of The Yin Yoga podcast, I get into 'housekeeping' and a summary session, perfect for all my regular listeners. The registration for my Fall 2025 100-hour Therapeutic Yin Yoga Teacher Training program is open. I provide a detailed overview of what this training entails. I also take the time to recap Season 5 as we prepare for a summer break, highlighting the importance of rest and balance. Additionally, I'll be holding summer Zoom classes, and I close the episode with a beautiful poem about the element of fire. Looking forward to reconnecting in the fall!00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:07 Housekeeping and Announcements01:58 Listener Feedback and Podcast Love03:20 Yin Yoga Teacher Training Overview11:10 Seasonal Wrap-Up and Summer Break16:32 Poem and Final Thoughts19:19 Gratitude and FarewellLast years Summer Themed Episode: Embracing the Fire Element: Summer in Taoism, TCM, and Yin Yoga https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/fire-element-summer-in-taoism-tcm-and-yin-yoga/Want to support my work? Leave me a tip.Yoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Full Show Notes https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra 

The Role of Mentorship in Yin YogaIn this episode of The Yin Yoga podcast, I welcome back Dr. Karina Smith, a Yin Yoga educator and Chinese medicine practitioner based in Melbourne. Together, we explore the significance of mentorship for Yin Yoga teachers and share our personal experiences as both mentors and mentees. We discuss the challenges new Yoga teachers face, the invaluable feedback process, and the importance of clarity and intention in teaching and business. We also highlight various ways mentors can offer support and the significant impact it can have on both personal growth and professional development.00:00 Introduction to the Yinny Yoga Podcast01:07 Welcome and Community Engagement01:57 Guest Introduction: Dr. Karina Schmit02:16 Navigating Past Episodes and Listener Interaction03:39 Adult Content Warning and Listener Feedback05:16 Dr. Karina Schmit's Background and Achievements08:24 Starting the Conversation with Dr. Karina Schmit10:00 The Importance of Mentorship in Yoga11:32 Personal Mentorship Experiences18:06 Challenges and Growth in Teaching Yoga23:37 Offering Mentorship and Business Guidance26:54 The Evolution of Mentorship Programs33:03 Intentional Teaching and Functional Anatomy34:14 The Importance of Intentional Language in Teaching35:14 Launching a New Level Two Yoga Teacher Training36:08 Balancing Empathy and Boundaries in Yoga Teaching37:21 Normalizing Student Experiences in Yin Yoga42:44 Formalizing Mentorship Offerings44:44 The Value of Niching in Business Mentorship50:11 The Role of Mentorship in Personal and Professional Growth53:06 Options for Connecting with Mentors57:50 Final Thoughts and GratitudeYou can listen to Karina's other episode - Yin Yoga Is Not Chinese Medicine Find Karina Here:Website: https://www.drkarinasmith.com/contact-dr-karina-smithInstagram: @drkarinayinyoga @drkarinasmith Want to support my work? Leave me a tip.Yoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Full Show Notes https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra 

S. 4| Ep. 9In this episode, I dive into the world of Yin Yoga with the renowned Bernie Clark. We explore a wide range of topics such as the history and philosophy of Yin Yoga, meditation, and anatomy. Bernie shares his yoga journey, discusses the intricate relationship between fascia and muscles, and clears up common misconceptions around the terms 'stress' vs. 'stretch.' We also touch on how Yin Yoga teaching has evolved, especially during the pandemic. Whether you're a seasoned yoga teacher or a passionate student, this episode offers valuable insights into the Yin Yoga practice.00:00 Introduction to the Yin Yoga Podcast01:10 Special Guest: Bernie Clark01:37 Listener Review and Podcast Love03:49 Bernie Clark's Biography06:45 Bernie Clark's Journey into Yoga10:14 Discovering Yin Yoga13:26 Teaching and Training in Yin Yoga 22:53 Impact of the Pandemic on Yoga Studios31:46 Meeting Kevin and Teaching Online 32:26 Course Structure and Flexibility33:21 Transition to Online Teaching34:49 Experience with Online Yoga Platforms36:59 In-Person and Advanced Courses37:55 Creating the 'Your Body, Your Yoga' Series38:19 Functional Anatomy for Yoga Teachers40:25 Addressing Common Questions in Yin Yoga46:41 Stress vs. Stretch in Yin Yoga51:58 Cold Muscles vs. Warm Muscles in Yin Yoga01:04:46 Conclusion and GratitudeYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Full Show Notes https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcastSee all episodes at a glanceWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.Find Bernie: https://yinyoga.com

S. 4| Ep. 7Exploring Upper Body Poses in Yin YogaIn this solo episode of the Yin Yoga Podcast, I discuss the nuances of incorporating upper body poses in Yin Yoga, address common misconceptions, and offer practical guidance. I share my journey of expanding Yin practice to include the upper body, driven by my experience and student feedback. Here is the link to the PDF with some upper body poses: https://www.tummee.com/yoga-sequence/4KMKsYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Full Show Notes https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcastSee all episodes at a glanceWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.

Bonus Welcome to a Share the Love episode.Before we head into a break between seasons I thought I would share a few of the episodes I have been interviewed on about Yin Yoga.In this episode, I am interviewed by Sarah Nelsen a fellow Yoga Therapist on her podcast which was called Swimming and Singing now called Homecoming.In this interview, we talked about: Topics we cover include:Brief history of yin yogaYin vs. yang styles of yogaPhysical practice and mental/emotional practiceWhat is therapeutic yin yoga?Traditional Chinese Medicine and yin yogaTight spinal muscles: what causes them and how they contribute to back pain and deteriorating spinal healthBenefits of yin for the nervous systemYin and interoceptionYin and anxietyYin yoga: the gateway drug to meditationThe importance of normalizing coming to yoga/meditation with a busy, anxious brainI hope you enjoy the episode you can find Sarah's podcast here: https://www.sarahnelsenyoga.com/podcast-swimsingand follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/sarah.elaine.nelsen/

10 Common Mistakes I See Yin Yoga Teachers MakeIn this episode of the Yinny Yoga podcast, I dive into the top 10 most common mistakes that I see Yin Yoga teachers make and share my insights on how to avoid them. We cover crucial topics like the importance of proper training, understanding breath techniques, flexibility in lesson plans, the role of alignment cues, and the value of quiet time and knowing the difference between Yin Yoga and Restorative.Whether you're an experienced teacher or new to Yin Yoga, you'll find plenty of practical advice and resources to enhance your practice.00:00 Introduction to the Yinny Yoga Podcast01:25 Today's Topic: Common Mistakes in Yin Yoga Teaching01:39 Join the Waitlist for Yin Yoga Teacher Training08:14 Mistake #1: Lack of Proper Training10:17 Mistake #2: Incorrect Breath Techniques12:12 Mistake #3: Overly Rigid Lesson Plans13:33 Mistake #4: Misuse of Alignment Cues17:06 Mistake #5: Discomfort with Discomfort18:44 Mistake #6: Lack of Pose Variations22:33 Mistake #7: Insufficient Quiet Time24:23 Mistake #8: Parroting Without Understanding26:55 Mistake #9: Hands-On Adjustments29:09 Mistake #10: Inaccessible Poses33:29 Bonus Mistake: Confusing Yin with Restorative Yoga34:32 Summary and Conclusion37:40 Final Thoughts and GratitudeWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.Yoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Full Show Notes https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra