Yin Yoga + Restorative Yoga are not the same. And here’s why.
Restorative yoga and yin yoga are two styles of yoga that are often used interchangeably, when in fact they are complete opposites.
So why do the two get confused? From the outside, they appear to be similar practices because they are both floor based practices and often use props to support the body. Like most yoga practices, both Yin and Restorative Yoga can promote relaxation and stress relief.
Tapas: An Eternal Flame
Associated with heat or fire, TAPAS is said to burn away our impurities so, through a sustained practice of discipline, we purify our bodies and more importantly, our minds. Discipline and discomfort typically go hand in hand, especially when we are looking to instigate change or do something differently, there is always an element of discomfort as we navigate the new. Tapas asks us to use the practices of yoga: to serve, to be kind, to step into our truth, and to commit to regular asana and meditation; our sadhana.
Lost In Translation
Using SANSKRIT names to refer to asanas in our yoga classes recognises that yoga postures are so much more than names, they are a representation of the richness and depth that our yoga practice can offer us in our daily lives. Often we lose the meaning, the purpose or even the story behind the asana when we anglicise it. So it's why we learn it as part of our 200 HR Yoga Teacher Training Program.