Yin Yoga · Beginner · Full-body · Flexibility · Nervous-system

40-Minute Yin Yoga for Beginners — Yin Yoga class, 39 minutes

40-Minute Yin Yoga for Beginners

40 min Beginner BeginnerFull-bodyFlexibilityNervous-system Aug 2022
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Before you go

Two hours to completely switch off

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What this Yin class is

A gentle introduction to Yin Yoga, with no props and every pose held for just one or two minutes. We begin with a short grounding meditation, then move slowly through child’s pose and puppy to open the chest and spine, into a wide straddle and deer pose for the hips, and finish standing with squat and dangling before a long, restful savasana. It’s a calm, full-body stretch designed to release tension and teach you the feel of Yin from the very first pose.

Who this class is for

This one is made for beginners, or for anyone who wants a slower, simpler practice with plenty of guidance along the way. Katie explains the three principles of Yin as you move, so you’ll come away understanding not just what to do but why. It’s just as welcome if you’re returning to your mat after a break.

What you need

Just your mat and a quiet, warm space where you can be still. This is a no-props class, though a folded blanket for under your head or knees is nice if you’d like a little extra comfort. Every pose has a gentler option and a deeper one — take whichever your body is asking for today, and press pause whenever you need to.

How Yin Yoga works — three simple cues

What you'll practice

Welcome
Intro to Yin for beginners
Breath
Grounding meditation
Chest
Puppy Pose · Anahatasana
Windshield wipers
Rest
Angel Pose
Pause
Waking up gently
Closing meditation
Thank you & goodbye

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Two hours to completely switch off

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Common questions

Do I need any props for this class?

No — this one is designed with no props at all, so you just need your mat. If your heels don't reach the floor in squat, you can fold the edge of your mat into a little cushion for them, and a folded blanket under your head in child's pose is nice if you'd like it. Everything here works with just you and your mat.

Is this class really suitable if I'm brand new to Yin?

Absolutely — this is an introduction, so Katie explains the three principles of Yin as you go and holds each pose for just one to two minutes. Come to about 60–80% of your capacity, never forcing, and take the gentler option in any shape. It's a lovely first taste of Yin.

What if I'm not very flexible?

That's completely fine — Yin isn't about how far you go. You can bend your knees, bring your feet closer together, or rest on your hands wherever you need to. The shape does the work over time, and you'll notice things easing open with regular practice.

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A gentle reminder: Yin asks you to respect your limits, not override them. Come out of any pose that feels like pain rather than sensation, ease off if your hands tingle or a knee complains, and take your time coming out of the long holds — the body feels tender for a moment, and that passes. This practice is about taking good care of your body, never pushing it.