Navigating Grief Through Yin Yoga: Strengthening the Lungs and the Heart in Times of Loss

Following the passing of my Mam (as we say in the Northeast rather than Mum) I have and still am going through the huge process of grief and it has been very challenging. We can experience grief through many different types of loss though not just death but that is the most common thing we would naturally associate with grief. Since this happened I have noticed a holding and a weakening almost in my lungs, this has been most evident in my swimming, where previous to this time I could swim around 10 lengths without stopping, but that changed drastically after Mam's death and I went to only being able to swim 1 length or 2 at most without stopping. At first I didn't even associate this with anything to do with what I was going through but then it dawned on me, as someone who teaches Yin Yoga I understand the connection between the lungs and grief and I've definitely been feeling this. Not just the lungs but of course the heaviness in the heart too. So my Yin practice on supporting these areas has been greatly invested in, I don't know how long it will take but the practice of Yin which is deeply nurturing and medative not only provides stimulation and balance to these areas but also dives us in to a space of quiet gentle reflectiveness where we can acknowledge our feelings and emotions and this has helped massively in coming to terms with the loss that is felt.

So I wanted to share a little bit more about this from an overall view rather than just my own.... It might feel like a tough read, but the hope is that it is helpful in some way if not for now if you're not holding on to any grief perhaps it can help in the future. (please not this is not a replacement in any way for professional grief councilling if you would benefit from that I strongly recommend seeking that out too but there are ways we can also help ourselves).

Grief is a profound experience that touches every part of our being. It can feel heavy, suffocating, and isolating. Many people find that traditional ways of coping do not fully address the deep emotional and physical impact of loss. Yin Yoga offers a gentle, mindful approach that may help navigate grief when working with practices that focus on the lungs and heart, two vital centers connected to our emotional well-being. The style of Yin is one that encourages us to slow down, breathe deeply, and create space for healing.

How Grief Affects the Body and Breath

Grief does not only affect the mind; it also manifests physically. The lungs, in particular, are closely linked to emotions of sadness and loss in many traditional healing systems, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). When we experience grief, our breathing often becomes shallow or irregular. This can lead to a feeling of tightness in the chest, making it harder to process emotions fully.

The lungs are responsible for taking in life-giving oxygen and releasing what no longer serves us. When grief blocks this natural flow, it can create stagnation in both body and mind. Yin Yoga targets these areas by holding poses for longer periods, allowing the connective tissues around the lungs and chest to gently open and release tension.

The Role of Yin Yoga in Healing Grief

Yin Yoga differs from more active styles by focusing on stillness and deep stretching. Poses are held for several minutes, which helps to access the deeper layers of fascia and connective tissue. This slow approach encourages mindfulness and introspection, creating a safe space to face difficult emotions.

By opening the chest and lungs, Yin Yoga supports the physical release of grief. It also stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the mind and reduces stress. This combination helps practitioners feel more grounded and connected to their inner strength during times of loss.

I often start my Yin classes and self-practice sessions with this pose which is a reclined chest opener and my students love this, when we start class and I say this is how we are starting there is an audible blissful sigh that passes through the room as they settle their bodies in to this (see the above photo for reference of pose)

Key Yin Yoga Poses for Supporting the Lungs and Heart

Here are some other effective Yin Yoga poses that target the lungs and heart area, helping to ease grief and promote emotional balance:

• Melting Heart Pose (Anahatasana)

Opens the chest and shoulders, encouraging deep breathing and emotional release.

• Sphinx Pose

Gently stretches the front body, including the lungs, while supporting the spine.

• Supported Fish Pose (Matsyasana variation)

Uses props to open the heart space without strain, inviting vulnerability and openness.

• Dragonfly Pose (Upavistha Konasana)

Opens the hips and lower back, areas that often hold emotional tension.

Holding these poses for 3 to 5 minutes allows the body to soften and the breath to deepen, creating a meditative state that supports healing.

Breathing Techniques to Complement Yin Yoga

Breathwork is a powerful tool to work alongside Yin Yoga when navigating grief. Here are two simple techniques:

• Diaphragmatic Breathing

Focus on breathing deeply into the belly rather than shallow chest breaths. This activates the diaphragm and increases oxygen flow, calming the nervous system.

• 4-7-8 Breathing

Inhale quietly through the nose for 4 seconds, hold the breath for 7 seconds, then exhale slowly through the mouth for 8 seconds. This pattern helps reduce anxiety and promotes relaxation.

Practicing these breathing exercises during Yin Yoga or separately can help release emotional blockages and restore a sense of peace.

A peaceful Yin Yoga space designed for lung and heart opening practices

Integrating Yin Yoga into a Grief Recovery Routine

Grief is not linear, and healing takes time. Incorporating Yin Yoga into your routine can provide ongoing support through the ups and downs of loss. Here are some tips to make the most of your practice:

• Create a dedicated space

Find a quiet, comfortable area where you can practice regularly without distractions.

• Set gentle intentions

Before each session, acknowledge your feelings and set an intention to be kind and patient with yourself.

• Use props for comfort

Bolsters, blankets, and blocks can make poses more accessible and soothing.

• Listen to your body

If a pose feels too intense, modify or rest. The goal is to support healing, not push through pain.

• Combine with journaling or meditation

After your practice, spend a few minutes reflecting on your emotions or simply sitting in stillness.

The Heart-Lung Connection in Emotional Healing

In many healing traditions, the heart and lungs are seen as connected centers of emotion. The heart governs love and compassion, while the lungs relate to grief and letting go. Yin Yoga helps balance these energies by opening the chest and encouraging full, mindful breathing.

This balance supports emotional resilience, allowing you to feel grief without being overwhelmed. Over time, the practice can help transform sorrow into acceptance and peace.

When to Seek Additional Support

While Yin Yoga can be a valuable tool for coping with grief, it is not a substitute for professional help when needed. If feelings of loss become too intense or persistent, consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor who specializes in grief.

Combining Yin Yoga with therapy or support groups can create a comprehensive approach to healing.

You can join us on Sunday evenings for our regular weekly Yin session, or get in touch if you'd like to book a private 1:1 yin practice with me.

With Love

Chrissy