Yin Yoga

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offered by raphaël beaupied, certified practitioner

YIN YOGA

A space for mindful stillness, inner listening, energetic balance, and flexibility

SLOWNESS ○ DEPTH ○ LETTING GO

Origins and Overview

Yin yoga is a gentle, introspective form of yoga rooted in both traditional Hatha postures and the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Developed in the late 20th century, it draws inspiration from Taoist philosophy and the ancient understanding of meridians – the energetic channels that run through the body. Unlike more active yang styles such as Vinyasa or Ashtanga, yin yoga works with long, passive holds that target the deep connective tissues such as the fascia, helping to increase flexibility, enhance joint mobility, support a calmer nervous system, while restoring balance of the Qi (life force) in the meridians. Its slow pace encourages stillness, presence, and emotional release. By linking postures with Traditional Chinese Medicine’s five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water), yin yoga becomes a holistic practice that nurtures both physical harmony and energetic balance, offering a therapeutic space for grounding and inner renewal.

Yin yoga offers a wide range of benefits that unfold gradually through its slow, sustained postures. By gently stressing the fascia, ligaments, and joint capsules, it helps improve overall flexibility and enhances mobility in areas that often become rigid from daily habits or aging, such as the hips, spine, and shoulders. The long holds stimulate hydration and regeneration of the connective tissues, supporting healthier joints and smoother movement. Energetically, yin yoga encourages the free flow of Qi through the meridians, helping balance internal organ systems according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. On a nervous-system level, the meditative stillness activates the parasympathetic response, reducing stress, improving sleep, and cultivating emotional resilience. Because the practice invites deep introspection, it can also foster a greater sense of patience, grounding, and inner clarity, making it an effective complement to more dynamic yoga styles and an essential tool for holistic well-being.

Benefits

Designed to be accessible to people of all ages and physical conditions, the benefits of Yin Yoga are manifold, allowing one to further nourish their yoga practice on a physical, physiological, and energetical level:

 

This introspective form of yoga:

  • Improves flexibility by gently lengthening connective tissues ;
  • Increases joint mobility, especially in hips, spine, and shoulders ;
  • Enhances hydration and health of fascia and joint capsules ;
  • Supports better posture and structural balance ;
  • Stimulates the meridians, improving the flow of qi (energy) ;
  • Helps balance internal organ systems (TCM) ;
  • Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress ;
  • Promotes deeper relaxation and emotional release ;
  • Improves sleep quality and overall restfulness ;
  • Builds patience, mindfulness, and inner stillness ;
  • Complements more active “yang” styles of movement ;
  • Encourages introspection and a deeper connection to one’s inner landscape ;

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a regular Yin Yoga session last for?

Most Yin Yoga sessions conducted by Raphaël last about 45 minutes to 1 hour. This may vary by ±10 minutes depending on the nature of the situation or event.

How do I need to prepare myself?

Tibetan Nejang Yoga being a practice performed in a seated position, practitioners are free to wear any clothing that they deem comfortable. Loose garments are usually preferred. Each participant must bring their own mat in order to attend classes.

Are there any contraindications?

Yin Yoga should be practiced with care, especially in cases of recent injury or surgery, acute inflammation, joint instability, advanced osteoporosis, hypermobility, or pregnancy. Postures should never cause pain or numbness, and modifications may be needed. Practitioners are encouraged to listen to their bodies and inform Raphaël of any relevant conditions to ensure a safe and supportive practice.

What is the best time to practice Yin Yoga?

To take full advantage of the benefits offered by Yin Yoga, it is recommended to practice either in the morning or in the later afternoon / evening, at least two hours before or after any food intake. Raphaël generally offers classes that within these two timeframes.

Does Kůra Růka offer online classes for additional guidance?

Yes, Raphaël does offer 1:1 and group private online classes for individuals who wish to deepen their practice and are looking for additional guidance. Please refer to the section further down this page or contact him directly for more information.

I am a wellness centre/retreat centre/meditation circle/community/business owner and would like Kůra Růka to conduct a Yin Yoga classes. Is it possible?

Yes, Raphaël would certainly be happy to share the benefits of Yin Yoga in such settings. Please get in touch for more information.

In-Person & Online Classes

[In-Person Group Class] Yin Yoga – 60 minutes

RM40 / TWD580 / JPY1200

  • Perfect for individuals looking to start and develop their own Yin Yoga practice in a safe, supportive, and relaxed environment, nourished by shared presence and collective energy.
  • Note 1: Participants must bring their own mat.
  • Note 2: Classes will be conducted in English with the presence of an interpreter (Mandarin) if needed.

[In-Person 1:1 Class] Yin Yoga – 60 minutes

RM80 / TWD1180 / JPY2400

  • Perfect for individuals looking for additional, tailored guidance in a more private and focus setting, to go deeper into their practice, and where concerns and questions can be addressed more precisely.
  • Note 1: Participants must bring their own mat.
  • Note 2: Classes will be conducted in English with the presence of an interpreter (Mandarin) if needed.

[Online Group Class] Yin Yoga – 60 minutes

RM30 / TWD480 / JPY1000

  • Perfect for individuals looking to start and develop their own Yin Yoga practice in a safe, supportive, and relaxed environment from the comfort of their home, nourished by shared presence and collective energy.
  • Note: Classes will be conducted in English through Zoom or Google Meet.

[Online 1:1 Class] Yin Yoga – 60 minutes

RM60 / TWD780 / JPY2000

  • Perfect for individuals looking for additional, tailored guidance in a more private and focus setting from the comfort of their home, to go deeper into their practice, and where concerns and questions can be addressed more precisely.
  • Note: Classes will be conducted in English through Zoom of Google Meet.

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