More Yin, please! How Yin Yoga Training Makes You a More Dynamic Yoga Teacher
There are as many ways to practice yoga as there are people practicing it.
As yoga teachers, we know that wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our students come to the mat with different needs—some seeking strength and power, others needing rest and recovery. One of the most overlooked tools in a teacher’s toolkit is Yin Yoga—a slow, grounding practice that helps students reconnect with their bodies, minds, and breath.
If you’re looking to expand your offerings and better serve your community, Yin Yoga teacher training could be the missing piece.
What Is Yin Yoga?
Yin Yoga is a still, meditative practice that focuses on long-held, passive poses. These postures target the body’s connective tissues—including ligaments, fascia, and joints—rather than the muscles.
Yin Yoga was developed by:
Paulie Zink, who first introduced the concept in the 1970s
Later expanded by Paul Grilley and Sarah Powers, who incorporated elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and mindfulness
Benefits of Practicing and Teaching Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga is more than just a relaxing stretch. It provides deep and lasting benefits that support both physical and emotional well-being:
✅ Increases flexibility and joint mobility
✅ Activates the parasympathetic nervous system (aka rest and digest)
✅ Supports mental clarity and emotional balance
✅ Enhances energy flow through meridians, based on TCM theory
✅ Cultivates patience, mindfulness, and introspection
Yin Yoga vs. Yang Yoga Styles
Unlike yang styles such as Vinyasa, Ashtanga, or Power Yoga, Yin Yoga is slow, cool, and receptive. There is no dynamic movement or muscular engagement—instead, students are invited to pause, soften, and surrender.
This contrast makes Yin Yoga the perfect complement to more active practices. It helps students balance out their energy, reduce stress, and prevent burnout.
What Makes This Yin Yoga Training Different?
Most yoga teacher trainings don’t explore the rich Chinese medicine foundation of Yin Yoga and fascia. But understanding this energetic framework is essential to teaching Yin with confidence and clarity.
That’s why this training includes a deep dive into the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine. You’ll learn:
✅ Foundations of Yin Yoga: Understand the history and philosophy behind Yin Yoga, including the concepts of Yin and Yang.
✅ Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Explore the Five Elements, Meridian Lines, and how they relate to Yin Yoga poses.
✅ Anatomy and Physiology: Gain insights from anatomy expert Sami Smith, focusing on the body's connective tissues and learning about fascia.
✅ Breathwork and Pranayama: Learn techniques to enhance the meditative aspects of Yin Yoga.
✅ Sequencing and Teaching Methodology: Develop effective class sequences and learn how to hold space for students.
Ready to Teach Yin Yoga with Confidence?
Whether you're a 200-hour yoga teacher or a lifelong student, learning to teach Yin will deepen your own practice and transform the way you support others. Contact me for more information or if you have questions.
More Yin, please—for ourselves, our students, and our world.