Yin Yoga
Led by Nadia Alsadi E-RYT, MS, BS
Yin yoga is a slow-paced style of yoga that focuses on holding poses for extended periods, typically three to five minutes or longer. It targets the deeper connective tissues of the body, such as ligaments, joints, bones, and the fascia networks, rather than the muscles.
This practice aims to improve flexibility and increase circulation in the joints, promoting a sense of calm and balance. Yin yoga poses are usually seated or lying down and are designed to be passive, allowing gravity and time to deepen the stretch. The practice of holding each pose for longer comes from classical Hatha Yoga, originally practiced by monks.
The meditative nature of yin yoga encourages mindfulness and introspection, making it a complementary practice to more dynamic forms of yoga and physical exercise. By holding poses for longer durations, practitioners are invited to explore their inner landscapes, fostering a deeper connection between the mind and body.
What is Yin Yoga?
Accessible for everyone, from absolute beginners or seasoned yogis.
Yin allows beginners to gradually open the body, improve flexibility, and develop patience without the intense cardio or strength training found in faster styles. During class, you can opt in or out of hands-on adjustments from the instructor and use bolsters, props, or blocks. Bolsters can provide deep support in passive stretches, allowing the body to deepen the stretch and hold poses for longer periods without muscular effort or pain.
Benefits of Yin Yoga
Increases Flexibility
Yin yoga focuses on holding poses for extended periods, which helps to stretch and lengthen the connective tissues (fascia) and improve flexibility.
Reduces Stress
The slow, mindful nature of yin yoga promotes relaxation and reduces stress hormones, like cortisol. Yin Yoga also activates yourt parasympathetic nervous system which slows the heart rate and calms the body.
Boosts Circulation
Holding poses and breathing into each pose can increase blood flow to the muscles and organs, promoting detoxification and overall health.
Improves Joint Mobility
When connective tissue is underused, it can lead to stiffness and aches. Yin Yoga targets the deeper tissues around the joints, which can enhance lubrication and mobility.
Yin Yoga and Breath
The practice emphasizes slow, deep, nasal breathing, gradually lengthening exhalations to release physical and emotional tension. Breath is used as an anchor to the present moment, supporting the participants into deeper stretches and promoting a sense of presence and inner peace. In poses, the breath is used to connect the mind with the body, notice sensations, and stay present without judgment.
Nadia Alsadi E-RYT, MS, BS
About the Instructor
Nadia (she/her) is a 300-hour Yoga Alliance registered Expert Yoga Instructor (E-RYT) in the Twin Cities. Nadia has her M.S. in Natural Resources Science and Management and her B.S. in Environmental Sciences. Specializing in leading meditation, vinyasa, and yin yoga classes, Nadia enjoys practicing as much as teaching and has been practicing yoga for over 12 years and teaching for over 4 years. In the warmer months in Minnesota, Nadia leads outdoor yoga classes in Twin Cities parks to incorporate nature education and community building. In her free time, Nadia enjoys strength training, hiking, camping, and cuddling with her two cats, Cookie and Leopold.
Nadia values accessibility and connection in her profession and teachings. She believes that yoga is a deeply spiritual practice that is for everybody, and she aims to make sure all of her students feel welcomed and accepted. In honoring yoga’s roots, Nadia incorporates yogic philosophy into her classes.
“Yoga is a practice that can meet you where you are at, and that the time for yoga is always now. I always hope to honor yoga’s eastern roots and incorporate yogic philosophy into all of my teachings.” -Nadia Alsadi
Upcoming Yoga Classes
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Yin Yoga + Tuina
Saturday, September 27
10:00 am - 11:15 am
$35 - $60 sliding scale