The Meridians in Yin Yoga

In addition to stretching the connective tissue, Yin yoga asanas (poses) also help to stimulate the flow of chi energy through the meridians of the body; similar to acupuncture.  Since Yin yoga focuses on the lower, or yin, half of the body (from the waist down), the asanas work to stimulate the lower body meridians - liver, kidney, stomach, urinary bladder, and gallbladder.  By stimulating the meridians in this way, we can help to take care of their associated organ.  The most important of these, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, are the kidneys as they are the source of all health. 

To help stimulate the kidney meridian try dragonfly pose.  Sit with your legs spread apart and fold forward.  The spine can round as it needs to and the hands can be wherever is most comfortable.  Keep the muscles in the legs relaxed and try to hold the pose for at least three minutes.  Focus on the breath and try to direct it to any areas that feel particularly tight or restricted.