Yin Yoga Podcast

S.3 | EP. 2In this episode, we dive into the fundamentals of fascia with anatomy expert Gil Hedley.From understanding different types of fascia to debunking common myths, Gil provides an exploration of the body's connective tissues.We also discuss Yin Yoga, the relationship between fascia and the nervous system, and the holistic perspective of body anatomy.Gil's rant about Cellulite the fuzz is not to be missed.Gil is equal parts passionate, soulful, funny, and entertaining.So without further ado my friend Gil Hedley You Can Find Gil :Website: https://www.gilhedley.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/somanautInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gilhedley/Yoga Teachers Get on the Waitlist: https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-teacher-training/ at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes On Zoom https://nykdanu.com/students/yoga/online-yoga/To subscribe to my https://nykdanu.com/students/yoga/video-library/Full Show Notes: https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-teacher-training/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul Grilley : https://pranamaya.com/courses/anatomy-for-yoga/?ref=20 (affiliate link)Find me on Instagram Nyk Danu Yoga: https://www.instagram.com/nykdanuyoga/Yin Yoga Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/yinyogapodcast/See all episodes at a glance https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NOyRZM7cKC-h9kOMT-rIIeuatJgOf1CKT63LjAHk2LU/edit?usp=sharingWatch Killing us Softly 4 https://youtu.be/lxYcaFzVX08?si=nVDAvK3IBsJUcL_p

S.3 | EP. 1In this episode of A Yin Yoga podcast,  Addie deHilster (mindfulness meditation teacher and certified Yoga therapist) and I have a relaxed, what I'm calling a fireside chat, about the use of props in Yin Yoga.If we think that yoga should be accessible to everyone (and I do), regardless of their skeletal structure or flexibility. Then, in this discussion, Addie and I emphasize how props can enhance comfort and accessibility, debunking the notion that Yin Yoga should be practiced without them.We dive into the critical role of props in Yin Yoga, address common misconceptions and highlight the benefits for individual practice.In this discussion, we chat not only about our personal experiences but also share practical advice for teachers and the broader implications for creating accessible and trauma-informed Yoga environments.The functional use of props to avoid hierarchies in poses.Overcoming internal resistance to prop use.Ideas for propping effectively even in prop-limited settings.Having inclusive and accessible Yoga classes  Also Mentioned In this Episode: Mindfulness in Yin Yoga- with Addie deHilsterYin Yoga vs Restorative YogaMy Interview on Addies Podcast Find Addie:Addies Props On-Demand CourseAddies Teacher Training Find Addie on Instagram 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:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra  

S.2 | EP. 24Wow, It feels like just yesterday I was starting this podcast and here we are at the end of season 2.I'm getting ready to take a break over the summer to heal regroup and plan season 3.But before I do I wanted to announce that if you are listening to this episode when it drops, registration for my 60+ hour Therapeutic Yin Training is open (whoot). You can click this link to learn more and sign up. https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-teacher-training/If these current dates don't work for you make sure you join the waitlist!Anyone on the waitlist gets first access to registration, access to a 25% Off discount code And a bunch of free Yin Yoga goodies while you wait for registration to open.ALSO IN THIS EPISODE Is an overview of all the episodes I have covered so far. Unless you are the most dedicated Listener You Have likely missed a few And this is a great time to catch up over the break.You can see all of the episodes including links at a glance here:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NOyRZM7cKC-h9kOMT-rIIeuatJgOf1CKT63LjAHk2LU/edit?usp=sharingHave a great Summer and Until Sept bye for now. To Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Full Show Notes https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-teacher-training/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram Nyk Danu Yoga: https://www.instagram.com/nykdanuyoga/Yin Yoga Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/yinyogapodcast/

S. 2 | EP. 23The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long"  Lao Tzu'sIf you live in the northern hemisphere and you are listening to or watching this episode as it comes out then today is the first day of Summer.So in honour of the day, I thought I would do a special episode on Embracing the Fire Element Summer in Taoism and TCMElement of Fire corresponds to Summer in Traditional Chinese Medicine and TaoismFire is the element associated with summer, embodying the qualities of heat, activity, and passion.The direction associated with fire is south, the color is red, and the climate is heat.Yin channels: Heart and Pericardium.Yang channels: Small Intestine and San Jiao (Triple Burner) Harmonizing Yin and Yang:In the busy outward shining energy of summer, it's important to remember to harmonize active (yang) energy with restful (yin) energy during the energetic summer months. A few characteristics of the Fire Element and SummerThe heart is seen as the sovereign, governing spiritual and mental activities.Sound: Laughter.Emotion: Joy.Spirit: Shen.Shen and Its Importance:Shen represents the mind and spirit, encompassing mental function and emotional health. The Shen Ming is the inner radiance and vitality that shines through one's eyes, reflecting enthusiasm and clarity of mind.Physiological and Philosophical Functions of the Heart:Circulation of blood.Abode of Shen, influencing mental clarity, memory, and sleep.Shen goes outward during the day and returns to rest in the heart at night.Meridians Connected to Fire:Heart (Yin): Sovereign organ, governing blood circulation and mental activities.Small Intestine (Yang): Separates pure from impure substances, both physiologically and mentally.Pericardium (Yin): Protects the heart both physically and emotionally, shielding it from excessive emotions.San Jiao (Yang): Regulates qi flow, without a direct Western anatomical counterpart; associated with three regions (upper, middle, lower jiao).Fire Personality Archetype:Typically extroverted, charismatic, and energetic.Enjoys socializing, drama, and sensation.Potential weaknesses: Anxiety, insomnia, depression when out of balance.Tendency to be the life of the party but may struggle with solitude and introspection.Seasonal Tips for Summer:Balancing Activities:Ensure adequate rest to prevent burnout.Incorporate cooling foods to counteract summer heat (e.g., mint, cucumber, lemon).Consider raw and cold foods if appropriate for one's constitution.Emotional and Spiritual Health:Practice mindfulness to maintain mental clarity and emotional balance.Embrace joy and laughter while avoiding extremes of any emotion.Disclaimer:The information provided is for general knowledge and entertainment. It is not medical advice, and listeners should consult healthcare professionals for personal health concerns.You will learn all this and much more in this episodeYoga 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-teacher-training/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast

Do you ever feel like Your Yin Yoga classes are getting boring? The first thing to get clear on as a teacher is, are you bored or are your students bored? Most of them (your students) aren't bored It's in your head, dear teacher, you are bored. They are probably not. 90% of the time, your students are not bored. They are content to do the same thing over and over and over again because it's more nourishing to their nervous system to have something familiar and predictable. It's the same reason that people who suffer from anxiety, for example, will watch the same movie over and over, right? It's like a little feel-good fix. You know what's coming. It's your favorite movie. It’s like this in their class. From my experience, 90% of the time, the teacher is bored with the sequence, not the students. That being said, in this episode, I will share some tips and Ideas to keep your Yin Yoga classes inspiring BOTH for you the teacher, and your students. But remember Dear Yoga Teacher Yin Yoga is not Entertainment. Yoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the Page To Join my Yin Yoga Classes on Zoom To subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library: Full Show Notes https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-teacher-training/yin-yoga-podcast/ Anatomy for Yoga with Paul Grilley Hang Drum Music by Fred Westra  Find me on Instagram  @nykdanuyoga @YinYogaPodcast

The discussion dives into the challenge of feeling disconnected in Yin Yoga poses. It emphasizes that the practice isn't solely about chasing physical sensations or stretches, which can lead to addiction and injury. The hosts explore the importance of individual body awareness and mindfulness in yoga. They highlight nervous system regulation and the essence of yin practice beyond poses, inviting listeners to tune into themselves even when sensations seem absent. Reflection on personal experiences enriches the journey of yoga.

S. 2 | EP. 20What I have witnessed many times when I attend other people's yin-yang classes is that the class starts with some kind of grounding and centring.Then quickly move into sun salutations. Then there's a dead stop in the practice into child's pose, which is their transition into yin. And then they throw in some Yin poses. That's not very skillful. And here's why our nervous system is going to have a lot of trouble adjusting to move, move, move, move, move, hot, sweaty, hot, sweaty, hot, sweaty, peak pose, bam, yin pose. It's too jarring to go right from one to the other. I would argue that a yin-yang class is more circular in nature. It's more of a circular experience and the transitions are slower and they have more ease in them. There's a little bit more kind of moving from one to the other instead of this start-stop. And although that might be an okay Yang to Yin class, I know dear yoga teacher listening that you don't just want to teach okay classes. I know that you want to teach exceptional classes. Part of my mission with this podcast is to give you some tools tips and techniques to help you guide exceptional classes. Okay, so we'll talk about all of this and more in this episodeAlso mentioned in this episode: What is Yin YangAre you teaching your Yin Yoga with your Yang attitudeHonoring the ReboundYoga 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 

The discussion tackles a bold claim that Yin Yoga isn't suitable for beginners, sparking a lively exploration of individual motivations and mental states. Insights are shared on how teachers can effectively accommodate newcomers to Yin practices. The community's engagement is also celebrated, highlighting the importance of listener feedback and experiences. The warmth of connection in the Yin Yoga community is palpable, leaving listeners both informed and inspired.

S. 2 | EP. 18Hands Off - Should We Offer Hands-On Assists Yin Yoga Classes?Today's episode, which I think is going to be a juicy one and probably a little bit controversial, perhaps  (I am known for having unpopular opinions), we will be exploring the question of offering hands-on assists in Yin yoga classes from my perspective.If you are new to the podcast, or if you're new to Yin, you may also want to check out the episode What is Yin Yoga, to set the stage as to what Yin Yoga is and how It's different.Active, more dynamic, more moving form of practice is focused on proprioception. So like, where is my body in space? So when you are, for example, standing at the front of your mat, and you have to step back to do a high lunge, knowing where your foot should land behind you without looking is proprioception.These movement forms of Yoga are excellent at cultivating the skill of proprioception. Proprioception vs. Interoception:Proprioception's focus is on external body awareness compared to interoception's emphasis on internal awareness.Yin yoga's unique emphasis on interoception contrasts with more dynamic yoga styles.It's important not to bring out Baggage from more active styles of Yoga into Our Yin Yoga Practice. Yin Yoga isn't "just like regular Yoga with longer holds".Most yoga teachers are not educated enough in anatomy and kinesiology to know whether or not that is safe for that particular student, right? So just because something is safe for one student doesn't mean it's a safe adjustment for the very next student. Okay. So each student has their own individual body, their own individual bone structures, their own body proportions, et cetera, et cetera.That's not to mention issues and injuries and, dominant hands and feet and all the things. So as student from student to student, they're so different. So going in with the same sort of rote, everybody gets this adjustment is not skillful.Episode Highlights:Challenging the appropriateness of hands-on assists in Yin yoga classesIndividual student needs and safety concerns.Honouring and respecting Yin Yoga's focus on internal experience and introspection.Advocating for a teaching approach that prioritizes verbal and visual guidanceI want to encourage Yoga teachers to prioritize student safety, autonomy, and inclusivity in their teaching approach.Teaching a trauma-informed practice where students are encouraged to explore and have agency over their bodiesScope of practice as a Yoga Teacherand much moreYoga 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-teacher-training/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra 

S 2| EP. 17CW: Trauma, Sexual AssaultThis is Part Three in a three-part mini-series on Trauma, the nervous system, and Yin Yoga.In part one Alyssa Stephenson and I discussed the nervous system and Trauma.trauma-sensitive yogaIn part two Nicole Marcia and I discussed the definition of Trauma Sensitive Yoga and how we can make Yin Yoga Trauma-informed.In this final part, we come full circle in so many ways.My guest today Janis Isaman started practicing with me in one one-on-one Yin Yoga sessions. She then went on to take her Yin Yoga training with Paul Grilley And now teaches Yin Yoga. So that's one Full Circle.But there is also a full circle in her journey with her trauma. From working with me and unearthing (what she now knows is trauma). To dive deep into her Trauma while studying with Paul to then training to become a Trauma Centre Certified Yoga Teacher.Circles Within Circles in this episode.My biggest Takeaway from this episode is that trauma work is so individual. While Yin Yoga might be too much for one person (depending on where they are in their journey) for another it might be an essential tool and key to helping them release and build resilience in their trauma journey. You can find Janis Website: https://www.mybodycouture.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mybodycoutureYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDdp9LHx2nlza_to_6wT7TgYoga 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-teacher-training/yin-yoga-podcast/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra