DVD Review Yin Yoga, by Paul Grilley (2005)
This 2-disc set would be more accurately titled Taoist Yoga, as it provides a vast amount of theory and practice for both the Yin and Yang forms that constitute Taoist yoga.
Disc 1, Theory, includes an hour and 48 minutes of lectures on 12 separate topics to explain Yin and Yang as applied to the physical body; describes the three tissue types (bone, muscle, and connective tissue); how we exercise them with yoga; and the modern meridian theory that connects yoga with practices such as Shiatsu massage and acupuncture. On this disc, Paul also teaches three popular Yang (active and warming) sequences: Golden Seed, Warrior Advances and Retreats and Flying Dragon. These are demonstrated by Paul’s wife Suzee, who moves with impressive grace and flexibility, as a result of extensive training in yoga and dance. The Yang sequences range in duration from about 3 to 5 minutes and are presented as separate menu items, which is very convenient for learning them correctly.
Disc 2, Practice, presents three separate Yin practice sequences, ranging from 62 to 70 minutes in duration. These are taught in a small class setting, with students demonstrating variations of the poses adapted to different levels of flexibility and strength. One of the practices targets mainly the hips, another the spine, and the third one is a combination sequence called the Infant Series. This disc also includes the three Yang sequences taught on Disc 1, but here they are demonstrated in a flow. Paul and Suzee perform them together, so you can see them performed by two different body types. You can play each sequence in a continuous loop, or select a combination of two or three of them and play that combined sequence from one through five repetitions. Finally, this disc includes five bonus Yin practices, in a slideshow format, with basic verbal instructions. These bonus practices range in duration from 22 to 29 minutes and can be combined in various ways for a longer practice.
This DVD set is consistent with most other yoga DVDs published by Pranamaya in that it is a very high quality production with an excellent menu design that supports multiple uses. It is highly recommended for students who want to practice at home, improving their flexibility and calming their mind. The set is also great for teachers who want to learn how to teach Taoist or Yin classes, as it provides the most authoritative material in a single package.
David Wegenast