As we know, yin yoga is derived from Taoist yoga, and the Book of Changes tells us that “one yin and one yang is called Tao (Dao)”. Yin yoga can be a practice to find balance between stretching the body and softening the mind, to learn to come to the edge but not go beyond it, and to know about Tao, which helps us to know different stages of ourselves and leads us to find a suitable way to take care of ourselves as time changes.
Static is Yin, while dynamic is Yang. Even though Yin and Yang are totally different, they can be in perfect harmony as long as we follow the Tao. Yin originally meant the shady part, and Yang meant the sunny part. We know that as time changes, the shady part can change to the sunny part and vice versa. Behind the constant change of Yin and Yang is the unchanging Tao, and one Yin and one Yang are called Tao. Our practice can also follow the Tao. Holding the pose for a certain period of time (Yin), we observe the changes in our body and the changes in our mind (Yang). In the midst of changes, we use the unchanging continuous conscious breathing to attain stillness and calm (Tao).
In Dragon pose, we extend one leg at the back with the pelvis down, and all three Yin meridians of the foot: the Kidney, Spleen, and Liver meridians, as well as the Stomach meridian, which runs along the front of the leg, can be activated. The stomach, together with the spleen, is associated with the earth element, the stable element that helps to ground us. The Book of Changes tells us that just as the earth is receptive and contains everything, a person with breadth of character and deep virtues is able to carry all things in the world with profound virtue. The yin yoga invites us to practice not only for body flexibility but also for cultivating the gentleness of the heart and a broad mind, just like the earth element.
The Dragon pose can be done with the upper torso folded forward and/or backward. When we practice with a back bend like the crescent moon, the Bladder meridian that runs along the spine, is also activated, and the bladder, together with the kidney, is associated with the water element. Water is soft, and the Tao Te Ching says, “The greatest virtue is like water, which benefits all things and does not compete with them.” In Yin yoga, we practice creating space for breathing, softening the heart, and cultivating a non-competitive attitude, just like the water element. In a world that is full of competition and stress, Yin yoga practice provides a chance to cultivate a different perspective and attain peace.
Made of the same elements as nature, we naturally have the same virtues as nature. Yin yoga practice remind us of our true nature and helps to restore our naturalness. One Yin and one Yang are called Tao. Let the naturalness guide us through the path between the contradictory Yin and Yang, and discover the best means of looking after ourselves at different times.
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This article on Yin Yoga is a great reminder of how we can use our practice to find balance and harmony in our lives. The connection to Taoism and nature is particularly inspiring. Thank you for sharing!
founder of balance thy life
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