-It’s not just stretching  

When people try Yin Yoga for the first time, they often expect a “deep stretch.” 

But what we walk away with – if they are given the right container – is often something more profound: 

A deeper exhale 

A quieter mind  

A softening that feels emotional, not just physical. 

So what’s really happening in those long, still shapes? 

The answer lives in your nervous system. 

Yin Yoga isn’t just about fascia – it’s about safety 

Let’s be honest: holding still can be really uncomfortable. Especially if you’ve experienced trauma, anxiety, or if your default state is go-go-go. 

But unlike fast- paced yoga styles, Yin invites us to slow down – to settle into stillness, stay with sensation, observe instead of fix. 

When taught with a trauma-informed lens, Yin becomes less about going deeper into a pose & more about listening to the body with kindness. 

That’s when the real work begins: 

Your sympathetic nervous system (fight/flight) starts to downshift 

Your parasympathetic nervous system (rest/digest) slowly takes the wheel 

Your brain starts to feel safe enough not to be in survival mode 

This doesn’t happen instantly. But with time & trust, Yin helps your body remember what it feels like to rest without being on guard. 

How Yin Yoga Regulates The Nervous System 

Yin is a nervous system whisperer. Here’s how: 

Stillness: Sends cues of safety, if done at your own pace. 

Time: Holding poses for 3-5 + minutes gives the body space to respond, not react 

Minimal stimulation: Quiet, dim lighting, & silence reduce sensory overload 

Breath awareness: Deepens the parasympathetic response 

Sound (when used): Gentle frequencies help drop into a rest state 

Permission–based language: Encourages autonomy, which is key for nervous system safety 

Yin doesn’t demand performance. It invites presence. 

But What If It Feels Too Much? 

That’s ok. Stillness isn’t neutral for everyone. 

This is why trauma-informed Yin is different from just “stretch & chill.” It centres choice, not control. Some people may feel triggered in stillness, others may dissociate. That’s not a failure – that’s information. 

That’s why in my classes, I use: 

Options to come out early/anytime you need 

Props to aid & support safety 

Grounding tools like breath, blankets, sound 

Invitations instead of instructions  

You’re the expert of your body. Yin is just a guide. 

Why This Matters For Mental Health 

We live in a world that doesn’t always allow us to feel. We’re tld to push through, numb out, or stay strong. 

But Yin teaches us the opposite: 

To pause. 

To feel. 

To soften into what’s real. 

For those living with anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma – that’s not a luxury. That’s a lifeline. 

Try This Simple Yin-Inspired Reset  

Pose: Legs up the wall (or over a chair) 

Props: Pillow under your hips, blanket under your head, option to place blanket over the body for added comfort  

Time: 3 – 8 minutes 

Optional: Play soft sound, music or silent 

Mantra: “I am allowed to rest.” 

Notice what arises – without judgement or expectation, but to simple welcome it. 

Final Thoughts 

Yin is not a quick fix. 

It’s not trendy or fancy. 

But in a world that glorifies the grind, it’s revolutionary. 

You’re nervous system is not broken. It’s protective, adaptive & wise. 

Yin just gives it space to recalibrate. 

If you’re ready to explore what that feels like – with guidance, compassion, & no pressure – I’d love to welcome you into class or a 1:1 session. 

Book a Yin Class or private session 

Join the community for upcoming seasonal classes & events 

Until then, may you remember : 

You don’t have to do more to feel whole. 

Sometimes, doing less is exactly what your nervous system needs. 

“The Sweetness of doing nothing” Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert 

With love & stillness, 

Rebel.