Yin Yoga is a slow-paced style of yoga as exercise, with asanas (postures) that are held for longer periods of time.
For beginners, asanas may be held from 45 seconds to two minutes; more advanced practitioners may stay in one asana for five minutes or more.
Yin Yoga poses apply moderate stress to the connective tissues of the body—the tendons, fasciae, and ligaments—with the aim of increasing circulation in the joints and improving flexibility.
Yin Yoga is not restorative yoga. Like all yoga practices, if the tissues you are targeting for exercise are damaged in some way, please give yourself a chance to heal before resuming your regular practice.
CATERPILLAR POSE
Begin seated on the floor with the legs fully extended out in front of you.
Bow forward over the legs and let the arms rest along your sides.
Stop reaching forward when there is a comfortable tension on the hamstrings and back body.
A bolster or blanket to rest your head (especially if you have a tense neck) can also be a nice addition.
Hold for 3′-5′.
Varvara Solomonidou,Wellness Specialist, Personal Trainer, Seminar & Conference Lecturer, Pilates Master Trainer “AthensTrainers® Ultimate Pilates System®”, Member of Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), Member of European Lifestyle Medicine Organization (ELMO), DNAFit® Certified Trainer, General Manager & Owner of AthensTrainers®
Model: Fenia Vracha, Yoga & Pilates Instructor, AthensTrainers® Associate
Photos: Dionysis Tsipiras
Source: Body Magazine, issue 54