Podcast
Yin Yoga Podcast
Hosted by Nyk Danu · EN
Welcome to A Yin Yoga Podcast with your host Nyk Danu - Certified Yoga Therapist, Mentor of Yoga Teachers, Yin Yoga Teacher trainer and total Yin Yoga Geek.
If you have a crush on Yin Yoga and are ready to dive deep, you are in the right place.
My guests and I will discuss all things Yin Yoga, including anatomy, philosophy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Meditation, Taoism, teaching tips, and so much more.
You can expect these conversations to be long format, informal, lo-fi and delightfully imperfect.
Welcome to the Yinside!
28episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Prana One Breath Many Worlds - Bernie Clarke
3w ago01:02:04Tap to summarizeSeason 8 | EP. 5Bernie Clark Returns: Prana, Fascia Science, and the Art of Slowing Down (Part 2)Part two with Bernie Clark is here, and we are going deep into his newest book, Prana: One Breath, Many Worlds. This one is equal parts storytelling, history, and science, and there was so much to unpack.We get into: Helene Langevin's research and how it builds a real bridge between ancient Eastern practices and modern Western science. Dr. Motoyama's AMI machineThe history of how prana has been understood across the ages Bernie's very personal story of burning out from too much yang and what finally brought him back into balance. We also talk about pranayama safety and what Yin teachers need to keep in mind when including breath practices in class.If you haven't listened to part one yet, go back to the last episode and start there. And if this book isn't on your shelf, go get it.Find The Book HereWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast
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Bernie Clark Answers Your Questions
4w ago01:19:18Tap to summarizeSeason 8 | EP. 4Your Questions Answered with Bernie ClarkSo excited to share this conversation with Bernie Clark, one of the most well-known voices in the yin yoga world. Bernie and I got talking and, true to form, it went long — so I split it into two parts. This first episode is all about your questions. You sent them in, I asked them, and Bernie delivered in the most thorough and nuanced way possible.We start with a catch-up on Bernie's anatomy course, which is now available on demand after its final live run. If you learn better by watching than reading (same), it's worth checking out.Then we get into the good stuff:Can yin yoga increase bone density?Bernie takes us into the biology lab for this one. We talk about Wolf's Law, the mechanostat theory, osteoblasts vs osteoclasts, and what the research actually says about how bone grows. Short version: yin probably won't actively build bone, but it may help slow resorption — and more importantly, it can reduce fall risk, which is where most osteoporosis-related fractures actually happen.Does flexing the foot in swan/pigeon protect the knee?Bernie breaks down why this cue has more validity than he originally thought (fascia is involved), but also why we need to stop using it as a fear-based universal correction. The knee isn't the target in swan — the hip is.The Lizzie Lasseter postA lot of you sent me this one. We go through it point by point — GOGI tendon organs, proprioception, neural drive, end range of motion. Bernie cites actual research. I rant a little about pitting yoga styles against each other. We both agree: let's stop using pseudoscience to make one practice seem superior to another. Bernie wrote a full response article and I've linked it in the show notes.How long is too long to hold a yin pose?Minimum around two minutes for the tissues to actually start releasing, with about 95% of the physical benefit happening by four minutes. Beyond that, the reasons to stay longer are more psychological, emotional, or energetic than physical — and that's totally valid.We also take a detour into scope of practice as yoga teachers, which honestly could be its own episode.Part two is coming next — Bernie and I dig into his new book, Prana: One Breath, Many Worlds. Can't wait for you to hear it.Links mentioned:Bernie's anatomy course (Functional Anatomy for Yoga Teachers)Bernie's response to Lizzie's postPrevious Bernie Clark episode (split into two parts)Yin yoga for athletes episode with TiffanyEpisode with Niamh on osteoporosisHypermobility and Yin Yoga- Libby HinsleyWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast
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The Quiet Shift: From Yin Yoga Intructor to Teacher & Guide
May 101:01:56Tap to summarizeSeason 8 | EP. 3The Quiet Shift: From Yin Yoga Instructor to Teacher and GuideThere's a transformation that happens when you've been teaching Yin Yoga for a while, and most people don't even notice it's happening until they're already on the other side of it. In this episode, The subtle but powerful evolution from instructing to truly teaching and eventually stepping into the role of a guide.In this episode, I cover:The real difference between a Yin Yoga instructor, a teacher, and a guide and why it mattersWhy most Yoga teacher trainings are actually instructor trainings (and what to do about it)The class where I forgot my lesson plan turned out to be the best class I ever taughtWhy I ignored my intuition for years before I finally started chanting to my students during ShavasanaWhat it means to hold brave space for your studentsThe power of bookends in your classes and why repetition is actually good for your students' nervous systemsHow to know which student feedback is worth listening to and what to let go ofWhy being a great Yin Yoga teacher means you're forever a studentEpisodes mentioned In This Episode:How To Hold Brave SpaceHow To Teach Exceptional Yin ClassesYin Yoga for the Upper BodyWhen Less Is More: Do you Need to Go DeeperThe #1 poseAlso MentionedBook mentioned Buddha's Brain by Rick Hanson Being a Bodhisattva Bodhisattva Prayer Video Monty Python Black Night If this episode resonated with you, I'd be so grateful if you took a moment to leave a five-star rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or a written review on Apple.On Spotify, let me know in the comments how this landed for you. And if you know a Yin Yoga teacher who needs to hear this, please share it with them. Sharing is caring, as they say.Want to support my work? Leave Me a Tip See all episodes at a glance To Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra
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How Often Should You Practice Yin Yoga?
Apr 2400:31:36Tap to summarizeSeason 8 | Ep. 2How Often Should You Practice Yin Yoga?In this episode, I'm diving into one of your most asked questions: how often should someone practice yin yoga? Spoiler: the answer is "it depends," and I get into all the reasons why.The stock answer you'll hear a lot is that yin and yang should be practiced equally to stay in balance. And while that's not wrong, it's way oversimplified. I break down why that answer doesn't account for so much of real life.We talk through all the factors that actually matter when figuring out the right amount of yin for someone:Health and ability — chronic illness, injury, recovery (including substance abuse recovery), and how that changes everythingStage of life — parents of little kids, seniors, anyone who's already running on emptyHow active you are outside of yoga — athletes, cyclists, people with physically demanding jobs (yes, I used my partner as an example!)Why you came to yoga in the first place — not everyone is here for the physical benefits. Some of us want to quiet the mind, learn to meditate, or go on an inward journeyNervous system nourishment — yin offers something that a movement-based class just can't in the same wayTrauma and the body — for people working through trauma, yin can be a powerful space to practice staying and befriending the bodyIntroverts and highly sensitive people — you don't always need more stimulation. Sometimes the chill, quiet class is exactly rightWe live in a yang-dominated world. Sometimes a little extra yin isn't an imbalance; it's the antidote.Oh, and we hit 100,000 downloads! Huge thank you to everyone who's been listening, sharing, and sending in topic ideas. Y'all are the reason this podcast exists.Links mentioned:Episode on Yin Yang TheoryEpisode on Yin Yoga and Osteoporosis/OsteopeniaEpisode on Highly Sensitive PeopleEpisode with Tiffany Cruikshank on Yin Yoga for AthletesWhat the World Needs Now is Yin Sweet YinWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast
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AcuYin Yay or Nay?
Apr 1700:38:59Tap to summarizeSeason 8 | Ep. 1In this episode,I'm diving into AcuYin, what it is, whether it's worth adding to your toolkit, and why I have some serious reservations about it. We talk about the real depth of Chinese medicine, why acupressure points are way more powerful (and individual) than most Yoga teachers realize, and where I think short continuing ed courses on this topic fall short. If you're a Yoga teacher considering an AcuYin training, this one's for you. Plus, a little celebratory moment, we hit 100,000 downloads! Thank you for your support!Season eight, here we go....Also mentioned in this Episode: Yin Yoga is Not Chinese Medicine with Dr. Karina SmithTeaching Saddle? Help Is On the Way Want to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast
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Vision to Decision: Liver & Gallbladder Wisdom
Mar 2700:28:02Tap to summarizeSeason 7 Ep. 12Today I'm talking about one of my favourite paired organs in Chinese Medicine, the liver and gallbladder. They're connected to spring, and the wood element, and understanding them can transform your Yin Yoga practice and your life.The liver sees the path. The gallbladder walks it.Key Functions:Ensures smooth flow of chi (emotional, digestive, menstrual)Controls the sinews (fascia)Associated emotion: anger, frustration, passionImbalance signs: Irritability, tight muscles, headaches, PMS, feeling stuckKey Functions:Governs decision-making and courageExecutes the liver's visionCourage = clarity + actionImbalance signs: Indecision, timidity, difficulty taking actionLiver = the dreamer, the architectGallbladder = the general who makes it soLiver without gallbladder = frustrated dreamerGallbladder without liver = action with no soulTogether = vision + courage + forward momentum"Without anger and frustration, there would be no evolution, revolution, or change.""Vision plus courage—that's what we need."Winter is for going inward. Spring is for planting seeds and taking action. SPRING is when I create my vision board and start new habits—not January!🎙️ Podcast break! Back April 17th💡 Send me your Yin Yoga questions: Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcastor comment on YouTube/Spotify/ My BlogAlso mentioned in this Episode: Root to Rise: Yin Yoga Spring and the Wood element Want to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra
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What The World Needs Now Is Yin Sweet Yin
Mar 2000:45:23Tap to summarizeSeason 7 | ep. 11 In this episode, I dive into why the world desperately needs more Yin energy right now – and I'm not just talking about Yin Yoga (although definitely that too). I'm talking about the overarching philosophy of Yin and why embracing these qualities is an act of resistance against hustle culture.I explore seven key reasons why we need more Yin, sweet Yin:• Yin as resistance to hustle culture• How Yin helps us avoid burnout through rest and regulation• Why listening (to ourselves and others) is a Yin superpower• Creating depth instead of constant stimulation• Embracing compassion and softness in a competitive world• Honouring natural cycles instead of endless growth• Supporting nervous system regulationI also share some personal stories, including a vulnerable moment about a health scare that really put things in perspective for me, plus journal prompts you can use to bring more Yin qualities into your daily life.If you're feeling burnt out, overstimulated, or just exhausted by the constant pressure to do more, this episode is for you.Also mentioned in this episode: https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/yin-yoga-podcast-what-is-yinyang/Want to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast
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Should we Combine Yin and Restorative Yoga?
Mar 1300:42:54Tap to summarizeSeason 7 EP. 10Should you mix Yin and Restorative Yoga in one class? Spoiler alert: I'm not a fan, and in this episode, I'm breaking down exactly why.I get asked this question all the time, so let's clear up the confusion once and for all. Yin and restorative yoga have completely different intentions. In restorative, you're using tons of props to feel zero stretch so your nervous system can deeply rest. In Yin, you're actually looking for sensation in the body while holding poses for 2.5 to 5 minutes.The problem? Most teachers (and students) are confused about the difference. And when you mix them in one class, it gets even muddier.In this episode, I cover:• The real difference between Yin and Restorative Yoga• Why mixing them confuses students• What to call your class if it's not 'actually Restorative.'• How I'd combine them if someone forced me to (spoiler: Yin first, then Restorative)• Why your 200-hour training is just the beginningIf you've been teaching "Restorative" with one bolster and a blanket, this episode is for you. Let's talk about honouring these beautiful practices and giving them the space they deserve.Got thoughts? Drop them in the comments. I'd love to hear your take on this. 👇🏻Also mentioned in this episode:Yin vs Restorative: https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/yin-vs-restorative-yoga-whats-the-difference/What is Yin Yang: https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/yin-yoga-podcast-what-is-yinyang/Props for Practice: https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-podcast/yin-yoga-podcast-what-is-yinyang/Restorative Training: https://www.judithhansonlasater.comWant to support my work? Leave me a tip. https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/78PEVR5WF3ZSASee all episodes at a glance https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NOyRZM7cKC-h9kOMT-rIIeuatJgOf1CKT63LjAHk2LU/edit?usp=sharingYoga Teachers Get on the Waitlist: https://nykdanu.com/teachers/yin-yoga-teacher-training/ at the bottom and top of the PageTo join my Yin Yoga Classes on Zoom https://nykdanu.com/students/yoga/online-yoga/To subscribe to my https://nykdanu.com/students/yoga/video-library/Anatomy for Yoga with Paul Grilley : https://pranamaya.com/courses/anatomy-for-yoga/?ref=20 Find me on Instagram Nyk Danu Yoga: https://www.instagram.com/nykdanuyoga/Yin Yoga Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/yinyogapodcast/
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Yin Yoga and Osteoporosis
Mar 601:16:00Tap to summarizeSeason 7 | Ep. 9Yin Yoga & Osteoporosis: Essential Safety Guidelines for Teachers & PractitionersJoin me in a conversation with Niamh Daly, Yoga teacher trainer and author of "Yoga for Menopause and Beyond," for an in-depth discussion on safely practicing and teaching Yin Yoga for those with osteoporosis and osteopenia.Key Topics:• Understanding osteoporosis vs. osteopenia and why both require the same precautions• Why 54% of women over 50 have osteopenia (and may not know it)• Specific pose modifications: avoiding spinal flexion, supporting forward folds, and safe alternatives• The truth about whether yin yoga can increase bone density• Teaching accessibly: starting with the gentlest variations first• Supporting students emotionally through their diagnosis journeyEssential Takeaway: Teach osteoporosis-friendly variations as your default approach, especially when working with women over 40—the highest demographic in yoga classes.Learn more about Niamh's work at https://yinstinctyoga.comWant to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast
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Teaching Saddle Pose? Help is on the way!
Feb 2700:45:14Tap to summarizeSeason 7 | EP. 8So I got asked to break down saddle pose, and honestly, I was excited but also like... this is gonna be tough to explain just through audio. That's why I partnered with Tummee to create a visual companion PDF with tons of variations you can actually see.In this episode, I walk through everything from basic hero pose modifications to full saddle alternatives. We're talking blocks, bolsters, blankets, straps, even upside-down chairs. Plus, I cover what to do when saddle just isn't happening for someone, no matter how many props you throw at them.Whether you're teaching saddle for the quad stretch, the backbend, or both, I've got you covered with options for everybody. This isn't beginner stuff, this is the master class version with real solutions for real students.Grab the free visual guide here: https://www.tummee.com/yoga-sequence/TeyWL And let me know in the comments what pose you want me to break down next.Want to support my work? Leave me a tip.See all episodes at a glanceYoga Teachers: Join The Waitlist for my Therapeutic Yin Yoga Training at the bottom and top of the PageTo Join my Yin Yoga Classes on ZoomTo subscribe to my On-Demand Video Library:Anatomy for Yoga with Paul GrilleyHang Drum Music by Fred Westra Find me on Instagram @nykdanuyoga@YinYogaPodcast
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