This Course includes RELAXATION techniques for reducing stress in daily life--including theory, gentle Yin Yoga practice, breathing techniques, and guided conscious rest, or Yoga Nidra. We begin on Tuesday the 19th and meet for 4 consecutive Tuesdays from 8:30-9:30 pm. This Course combines both theory and practice, and students should wear comfortable/athletic clothing.

This Course focuses on the theory and practice of Yin Yoga. This practice is designed to help you sit longer, and more comfortably, in meditation by stretching connective tissue around the joints (mainly the knees, pelvis, sacrum, and spine). A passive practice, Yin Yoga involves variations of seated and supine poses typically held for 3 to 5 minutes, accessing deeper layers of fascia, or connective tissue.

Additionally, we will dissect and practice a few traditional yogic breathing techniques or 'pranayama' designed to induce tranquility of mind and relaxed state of body. These are techniques that can be applied in any daily stressful situation or if you suffer from anxiety or panic attacks.

We will also explore an extended 'savasana,' or 'corpse pose' with guided conscious relaxation methods of Yoga Nidra or 'Yogic Sleep.' This is one of the deepest states of relaxation to achieve outside of the deep sleep state and is usually a transformative experience for anyone new to the practice. It instills deep states of physical relaxation in the body while keeping the mind concentrated on specific objects of sensation or visual imaginations.

• Week 1 (19/11) – An Overview - Foundations of Yin Yoga and the Science of Relaxation
• Week 2 (26/11)– Yin Yoga – Target Area Poses for the Hips and Pranayama for Relaxation
• Week 3 (3/12) – Yin Yoga – Target Area Poses for the Spine and Yoga Nidra
• Week 4 (10/12) – Yin Yoga—Target Area Poses for the Shoulders/Chest and Meditation