YIN YOGA: for menopause and Perimenopause
AS WE AGE, OUR BODY TRANSFORMS THROUGH A VARIETY OF CHANGES THAT CAN AFFECT OUR GENERAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING. This is particularly true for women going through menopause or perimenopause, which can result in a variety of physical and emotional changes. YIN YOGA PRACTISE CAN BE A USEFUL TOOL TO MANAGE THESE CHANGES AND SUPPORT GENERAL HEALTH AS WE AGREEMENT.
I had no idea I was experiencing perimenopause at the age of 42, let alone all the difficulties that go along with it. Regular practise of yin yoga, however, has completely changed my life. Even while I still struggle with night sweats, my emotional struggles from a year ago have significantly lessened.
I've found that practising yin yoga has helped me control my symptoms and feel more centred and at peace. Having a tool, I can rely on during this time of transition in my life has been a huge relief. I highly recommend anyone going through this transitional stage to give yin yoga a try.
WHY YIN YOGA?
Yin Yoga is a form of yoga that emphasises holding positions for prolonged periods of time (often 3-5 minutes or more) and gradual, deep stretches. Unlike more vigorous forms of yoga like Vinyasa or Ashtanga, Yin Yoga concentrates on the body's connective tissues, including the ligaments, tendons, and fascia. Flexibility, range of motion, and general joint health can all be improved by doing this.
YIN YOGA BENEFITS FOR MENOPAUSE AND PERIMENOPAUSE
One advantage of Yin Yoga for menopausal women is that it can lessen symptoms including hot flashes, sleeplessness, and mood swings. This is due to the fact that Yin Yoga is a tranquillizing and grounding practise that may help in calming the nervous system and lowering stress. Wide-Knee Child's Pose and Supported Bridge Pose are two Yin Yoga poses that can assist to increase circulation and reduce hot flashes.
Maintaining Strong Bones Through Yin Yoga
The ability to maintain bone health is another advantage of Yin Yoga for women as they age. Our bones may weaken and become more prone to fractures and other injuries as we age. However, studies have shown that Yin Yoga can aid to promote bone health and increase bone density. This is because Yin Yoga practises gently stress the bones, encouraging the formation of new bone tissue.
Butterfly Pose, Supported Bridge Pose, Wide-Knee Child's Pose, Seated Forward Fold, and Reclining Bound Angle Pose are some specific Yin Yoga postures that can be beneficial for women as they age.
The hips, spine, and other regions of the body that can become tight or weak with age can be stretched and strengthened with practise of these poses.
In conclusion, Yin Yoga is a practise that women of all ages can benefit from, especially those going through menopause or trying to maintain bone health. You can join me on the last Sunday of every month for a 2.5 hour Yin Yoga practise both in person and online.
YIN POSES FOR MENOPAUSE
Yin Yoga poses that can be beneficial during this time:
Remember to listen to your body and only go as far as feels comfortable. To encourage relaxation and remove tension, hold each pose for three to five minutes while concentrating on calm, deep breathing. Before beginning a new yoga practise, be careful to discuss any worries or questions with your doctor.
Happy practicing
Gem x