
Yin Yoga Podcast
Welcome to A Yin Yoga Podcast with your host Nyk Danu - Certified Yoga Therapist, Mentor of Yoga Teachers, Yin Yoga Teacher trainer and total Yin Yoga Geek.
If you have a crush on Yin Yoga and are ready to dive deep you are in the right place.
My guests and I will discuss all things Yin Yoga including anatomy, philosophy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Meditation, Taoism, teaching tips and so much more.
You can expect these conversations to be long format, informal, lo-fi and delightfully imperfect.
Welcome to the Yinside!
Latest episodes

Jul 4, 2025 • 20min
The Yin Between Seasons
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

Jun 27, 2025 • 1h 2min
Mentorship Matter In Yin Yoga with Dr. Karina Smith
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

Jun 23, 2025 • 1h 6min
Yin Yoga Yinsights with Bernie Clarke Part 1
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

Jun 23, 2025 • 27min
Yin Yoga for the Upper Body
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.

Jun 23, 2025 • 58min
Share the Love Episode- Swimming and Singing Therapeutic Yin
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/

Jun 20, 2025 • 40min
10 Common Mistakes Yin Yoga Teachers Make
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

Jun 13, 2025 • 1h 20min
Humilty & Integrity: Are you ready to Train Teachers with Grace Tempany
In this heart-to-heart episode of A Yin Yoga podcast, I sit down with the lovely Grace Tempany to discuss the nitty-gritty of Yin Yoga teacher trainings. If you've ever wondered what it takes to not only teach Yin Yoga but to teach others to teach it, this episode is for you. We dive deep into why it's crucial to have a solid foundation of training and experience, and the ethical considerations we all need to keep in mind. We also chat about the disturbing trend of underqualified teachers jumping into leading trainings and the dangers of using AI to cut corners. Whether you're just starting out or considering offering your own teacher trainings, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help guide your journey.00:00 Introduction to the Yinny Yoga Podcast01:07 Welcoming New and Returning Listeners01:37 Listener Feedback and Appreciation04:22 Introducing Today's Guest: Grace Tempany04:39 Grace Ani's Journey and Bio08:30 Discussion: When Are You Ready to Train Yin Yoga Teachers?10:40 Personal Experiences in Teacher Training13:06 Challenges and Insights in Yin Yoga Education20:53 Creating and Refining Yin Yoga Training Programs29:15 The Importance of Proper Training and Mentorship43:15 Evaluating Yoga Teacher Training Programs44:53 The Importance of Critical Thinking in Yoga45:55 Handling Unforeseen Classroom Situations50:31 The Dangers of Inadequate Training and AI Usage53:46 Marketing and Specialization for Yoga Teachers01:00:02 Guidance for Aspiring Yoga Teacher Trainers01:18:36 Final Thoughts and GratitudeFind Grace Here: https://www.gracetempany.com/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 Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcastSee all episodes at a glance

Jun 6, 2025 • 22min
The Complete Guide To Yin Yoga- Bernie Clarke (book review)
In this episode of A Yin Yoga podcast, I talk about the importance of Bernie Clark's 'The Complete Guide to Yin Yoga,' likening it to the 'Yin Bible.' From its origins as a newsletter to its third evolution in 2019. I contrast it with other significant Yin Yoga texts and share my insights, critiques, and praises. The episode also addresses the importance of leaving specialized content like Chinese medicine to experts. Please follow, subscribe, and review the podcast on your favourite platforms to stay updated with future episodes.00:00 Introduction to the Yinny Yoga Podcast01:07 How to Support the Podcast02:06 Engage with the Community04:19 Today's Topic: Recommended Yin Yoga Books05:55 Deep Dive: Bernie Clark's Yin Yoga Book13:46 Critiques and Final Thoughts on the Book20:55 Conclusion 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 Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcastSee all episodes at a glance

May 30, 2025 • 31min
When a Student Falls Asleep In Your Yin Yoga Class
What to Do When Students Fall Asleep In Your Yin Yoga ClassWelcome to another episode of a Yin Yoga podcast! We're diving into the tricky topic of what to do when students fall asleep during a Yin yoga class. I'll share my journey from being frustrated about students dozing off to feeling honoured that they trust me enough to rest deeply. We'll talk about my experience and tips for handling chronic snorers, and how to balance this with the rest of the class. Also, I'd love to hear from you! What's your advice on dealing with sleeping students?Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you're loving the podcast. Thanks for tuning in!00:00 Introduction to A Yin Yoga Podcast01:22 Today's Topic: Students Falling Asleep in Class01:54 Support the Podcast: Subscriptions and Reviews07:24 Personal Journey: From Irritation to Gratitude13:55 Handling Sleep in Yoga Nidra17:27 Dealing with Chronic Snorers25:51 Encouraging Rest and Deep Relaxation28:04 Conclusion and Call for FeedbackWant 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 Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcastSee all episodes at a glance

May 23, 2025 • 40min
Yin Yoga Is Not Entertainment
In this episode of the Yinny Yoga podcast, I dive into the world of Yin Yoga and how it's not about entertainment in the practice but about a deeper, introspective practice. I discuss the benefits of repetition, the focus on interoception, and how to guide students who might find Yin Yoga boring compared to more dynamic styles like Vinyasa. I share teaching strategies to keep students engaged and discuss the importance of holding space for a transformative practice. 00:00 Introduction to the Yin Yoga Podcast01:07 Welcome and Community Engagement03:02 Today's Topic: Yin Yoga is Not Entertainment12:02 The Importance of Repetition in Yin Yoga22:32 Guiding Students Through Yin Yoga38:10 Conclusion and Listener EngagementWant 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 Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcastSee all episodes at a glance