How long do you hold poses in Yin Yoga?

Usually 3-5 minutes per pose. It sounds long, but the first minute goes on getting comfortable, and after that most people settle. If a pose stops being manageable, you come out of it - there are no medals for staying.

Is Yin Yoga suitable for beginners?

Yes, though it challenges beginners differently than active yoga. The poses are accessible, but staying still with your thoughts for several minutes can be confronting if you're used to constant motion. That's also why it's valuable.

What's the difference between Yin and Restorative Yoga?

Yin targets deep connective tissues through moderate stress held over time - you should feel a stretch. Restorative is about complete relaxation with no stretch at all, fully supported by props. Yin is more challenging; Restorative is pure rest.

I'm very flexible - should I do Yin Yoga?

If you're hypermobile, Yin might not be ideal. You'd benefit more from Hatha Yoga which builds strength and stability around joints. Flexibility without strength can lead to joint problems over time.

What if I can't stay still that long?

That restlessness is exactly what Yin works with. You're not expected to be perfectly still - fidgeting, adjusting, even feeling frustrated is part of the practice. Over time, you'll find it easier to settle.

When you need deep, slow release

Yin Yoga

What this is

Yin Yoga is for people who need to slow down - properly slow down. If you're always rushing, always doing, always pushing through, this practice asks you to stay still and let your body soften instead.

This isn't about achievement or getting into impressive poses. You find a stretch you can feel without going to your absolute limit, then you stay in it for a few minutes.

If you're used to "pushing through" or find stillness uncomfortable, Yin will challenge you in unexpected ways. That's the point.

"Yin yoga teaches us that change takes time, and that staying still is a skill you can practise."

A yin class

What happens

Fewer poses, held longer

We hold fewer poses for longer. The first minute is usually adjustment. After that, you notice whether the stretch is manageable or needs changing.

Props for support

Blankets, blocks - whatever you need to find your "edge" without strain. Yin isn't about how deep you can go, it's about finding appropriate stress for your body.

Mind work

Holding still brings up everything you usually avoid through busyness. I guide you through this, often with meditation or breathwork, but ultimately Yin is about learning to be with yourself.

The difference

How it differs from Hatha Yoga

Yin Yoga

Holds poses at ~70% capacity for extended periods
Targets deeper tissues (tendons, fascia, ligaments)
Meditative approach to physical practice

Hatha Yoga

Uses shorter holds
Emphasises muscle strength
More active, flowing practice

Who it's for

People who live fast-paced, stressful lives and need to practise slowing down

Those with tight connective tissues that don't respond to regular stretching

Anyone who struggles to be still or quiet their mind

People looking for a meditative approach to yoga

Those who want to complement more active practices with something restorative

Anyone dealing with chronic tension or stress

Not suitable for pregnancy

I don't offer this class during pregnancy. Pregnancy Yoga is set up with positions I can adapt for you. Yin also isn't ideal if you're hypermobile - Hatha Yoga, which builds strength around the joints, suits very flexible people better. Pregnancy Yoga classes

Yin Yoga class at The Yoga Den, Wallington

Common questions

Ready to slow down?

Book through Bookwhen. This practice attracts people who are ready to try a different approach to both yoga and life.

Come prepared to be still for a few minutes at a time. It's harder than it sounds, and that's rather the point.

Book a Class Common Questions

Nervous about your first class? Email me first. I'm happy to talk through what to expect.