Slow Yin Yoga for Hips & Legs | Release Tension & Drift Into Deep Rest

This 1-hour Yin Yoga practice is designed to gently release deep tension in the hips, lower back, and along the sciatic nerve, while guiding your nervous system into a deeply relaxed state. We begin seated in a comfortable crossed-leg position with your sit bones grounded on the mat. Slow, mindful upper-body circles in each direction help stretch the tendons and ligaments of the legs, including the piriformis muscle, while creating space along the full pathway of the sciatic nerve — from the lower spine and lower back, through the buttocks, down the backs of the legs, behind the knees, into the calves, ankles, and soles of the feet. From there, we move into gentle forward folds and supported stretches to encourage a deeper release through the hips and posterior chain, allowing the body to soften without force. The practice then transitions to the mat, where we use two tennis balls to melt tension in the shoulders and neck. This self-massage helps quiet the mind, ease muscular holding, and prepare the body for complete rest. As the pace slows even further, you’ll be guided into Yoga Nidra, a deeply restorative meditation that supports nervous system regulation and prepares you for a peaceful, restful night’s sleep. ✨ Perfect for: Sciatic nerve relief Tight hips and lower back Stress and tension release Evening or wind-down practices Deep relaxation and better sleep Props: • 2 tennis balls (or similar massage balls) • Blanket or bolster (optional)