Yin for Tight Hips & Glutes

What this Yin class is

Twenty-three minutes of Yin to release tight hips and glutes. We settle into just a few deep shapes — a wide-knee fold, a long hold on each side to open the glutes, and a reclined twist to unwind the lower back — and stay in each one for two to four minutes so the deep connective tissue around the joints can let go. This is where Yin does its work: not in effort, but in time and stillness. Come as you are — every pose has a gentler option and a deeper one.

Who this class is for

Anyone carrying tightness in the hips and glutes — after sitting all day, after running or training, or simply because the hips hold so much of our tension. It’s a lovely way to ease aches, free up the lower back and build flexibility over time. New to Yin? Read the pose notes below first, then follow the shapes at your own pace.

What you need

Just your mat, and a warm, quiet space where you can be still for a while. No props are required, though a cushion or folded blanket is lovely to slide under the hip in Sleeping Swan or beneath the knees in the twist. 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. Stay a few minutes and let the shape do the work. Come out slowly if you need to.
• Be still. Settle body and mind, and rest your attention on your breath.