Yin for Digestion & Detox

What this Yin class is

Seventy minutes of Yin to give your digestion some TLC. The shapes here work around the center of the body — gently twisting, folding and compressing the belly to stimulate the digestive organs, with poses that also support the liver, gallbladder, kidneys and bladder lines. This is a guided class, so I talk you into each shape and tell you how long we’ll stay, then leave you plenty of quiet to settle. Come as you are — every pose has a gentler option and a deeper one.

Who this class is for

Anyone who wants to support their digestion and detox, or who simply loves a long, grounding practice that works the whole body. It’s the fifth class of my Yin Yoga Challenge, but you don’t need the others to drop in here — new to Yin? Read the pose notes below first, then follow the shapes at your own pace.

What you need

Your mat, and a blanket and a cushion or a yoga block to sit on — we use them to lift the hips in the seated folds and twists, which makes a real difference. A warm, quiet space where you can be still helps too. Press pause whenever you need to.

How Yin Yoga works — three simple cues

• Find your edge. Come to about 60–80% of your capacity — a real stretch, but never forcing or straining.
• Hold for time. Yin poses are held a while; the length is where the change happens. Come out sooner if you need to, and come out slowly.
• Be still. Let the shape do the work, settle body and mind, and rest your attention on your breath.