Yin Yoga
by Paul Grilley
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Book Reviews of Yin Yoga
Book Review: Combines Chinese mysticism with Indian philosophy...
Summary: 4 Stars
Admittedly, my study of yoga has been mostly superficial: I've read a few books, but never studied with a professional teacher. However, I do enjoy the few asanas (poses/postures) that I do practice regularly, and was glad to receive an opportunity to expand on them.Grilley combines Chinese mysticism with Indian philosophy to create yin yoga, incorporating the Modern Meridian Theory of Dr. Hiroshi Motoyama and Dr. James Oschman. This theory postulates that the meridians run through the connective tissue of the body, representing the yin energy, whereas the muscle tissue represents the yang. Included are several colour diagrams of the body and connective tissue to illustrate this point. The main difference between what Grilley calls 'yang yoga' and 'yin yoga' is that the postures in the latter are held longer, with the muscles relaxed, rather than the straining of 'yang yoga'.
A large variety of poses are illustrated with photographs and detailed explanations on the benefit and suggestions for the novice and more advanced student, giving a range in the degree of difficulty. Three sample routines are included with various emphasis on spine, hips and legs and then a combination. The sample routines are arranged in such a way that the transition between them feels smooth and natural.
Several sitting postures are detailed as well, with brief descriptions of the chakras, and a variety of pranayama and meditation techniques, including Sushumna Purification, chakra and kundalini meditation, Bija or "seed" mantras, etc.
Regarding chakras, Grilley brings up an excellent point often overlooked:
'When trying to describe where a chakra "is" one is in a dilemma. Common language suggests that they are physically located in the spine but the reader should bear in mind that this is both true and false. A "broken heart" is a real experience that indeed seems cantered in the heart but that is not where the feelings "are". The chakras have a physical correspondence but they are more than physical. Bear this in mind when reading about "where" a chakra "is". Don't be limited by only physical conceptions.' (pg. 93)
I found the practical section to be effective and the theory is as sound as any. This is definitely a book I value, and suggest it to anyone looking for a different perspective on yoga.
Book Review: Yin yoga is a winner!
Summary: 5 Stars
I have been practicing yoga for a number of years. Since I am drawn to the "vinyasa" yoga pratices of Power and Ashtanga, I wasn't sure I'd like this book because Yin yoga poses are held for 4-5 minutes at a time. Being the open-minded person that I am, I decided to give the book and this practice a try.
In the past month, I have new-found length in my spinal muscles, and my hips (which are my tighter spaces) are opening as well. I can't believe how much length and openness I have acheived in such a short time. Yin yoga has tremendously helped my asana practice. I can see and feel the difference in my Ashtanga primary series practice.
I would highly recommend this book to ANY yoga practioner - from beginners to advanced. The poses are safe and effective and you feel the difference in your body very quickly. Paul also has a DVD called "YIN YOGA". It contains 2 discs. The first explains the theory of Yin Yoga. The second is a practice DVD. It contains several YIN yoga sequences and has special YANG yoga sequences that are very "Tai Chi" - like. This DVD kit is a nice compliment to the book.
Book Review: Simple, easy to follow
Summary: 5 Stars
No words are wasted in this book, its brief and to the point. Paul Grilley covers the meridians/nadis in the body and how they are affected by this simple yet deep practice. In my opinion, yin yoga is much needed in our vinyasa-focused Western vision of hatha yoga. I am an ashtanga teacher and the practice of yin yoga has increased my understanding and awareness of my physical body. It is a welcome compliment to the yang aspect of my personal practice. Almost all the postures in this book are seated since yin yoga focuses on the area from the hips to the knees. What I love about this particular style is that you can do it first thing in the morning when you're cold and stiff or after a heated vinyasa practice.
I recommend this book because out of my numerous yoga texts, this is one that I constantly reach for.
Book Review: The Best DIY Yoga Book Around
Summary: 5 Stars
This book totally cured me of "Not Doing Any Exercise Ever." I have always been drawn to Yoga but I have never wanted to do it in a big room with other people and little mats.
While most "Yoga Guide" type books I looked at seemed to make some big assumptions as to my religious alignment or my knowledge of the practice,this book has easy to interpret descriptions of a bunch of positions as well as some fairly "non-hippie-dippy" interpretations of what they can do for you. Several pages of coherent "sample routines" put the positions into a sequence that I could easily put into effect.
Now I can do a little work on flexibility and strength any time I find a shady place in the grass or a space on my own floor. Best of all, I can do it myself.
Book Review: Learn the basics of Yin Yoga
Summary: 5 Stars
This book is very simple and includes photographs of the different postures and a few sample routines. Very easy reading and will get you going with Yin Yoga
In Yin Yoga you hold the postures for quite a long time and this has a transforming affect on your body. As opposed to Yang style yoga where you engage all your muscle and stretch for shorter periods of time, Yin Yoga works on your connective tissue and will increase the flow of Chi within your body.
Yin Yoga has changed my life and I live pretty much pain free due to the effects of practicing just about every day. You must get Paul Grilley's DVD entitled Yin Yoga. It is a lovely compliment to his book.
Please check my other Yoga reviews on Amazon.