Heart Openers in Yin Yoga

Unlocking the Heart: Supported Butterfly Pose in Yin Yoga

Heart openers in Yin Yoga are a deeply nourishing practice, especially when supported with props that allow the body to surrender safely and fully. At Kinen, we design our yoga mats and props with this purpose in mind: to help you open your heart, both physically and energetically, with ease and intention.

What Are Heart Openers in Yin Yoga?

Heart openers are postures that stretch and open the chest, shoulders, and upper back. In Yin Yoga, where poses are held for extended periods (3-5 minutes or more), these postures encourage the release of deep tension and emotional holding in the heart center. Unlike active backbends, Yin heart openers are passive, allowing gravity and time to do the work.

Why Practice Heart Openers?

  • Improved Posture: Counteracts the hunching and slouching that comes from hours of sitting.

  • Better Breathing: Opens the ribcage, creating more space for diaphragmatic breathing.

  • Emotional Release: The heart center is a powerful storehouse for emotion. Opening it can be calming, uplifting, and freeing.

  • Energy Flow: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, heart openers stimulate the heart and lung meridians, enhancing overall energy flow.

How to Set Up for Supported Butterfly Pose

This supported version of Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose) is ideal for gently opening the chest and heart space. Here's how to set it up using your Kinen yoga mat, blocks, and bolster:

  1. Foundation Layer: Lay your yoga mat flat on the floor to create a stable, cushioned base.

  2. Block Base: Place one block flat at the top center of your mat.

  3. Angled Support: Place a second block on top of the first one at a 45-degree angle, creating a gentle incline.

  4. Bolster Placement: Lay your bolster on top of both blocks, so it forms a comfortable slope to support your spine.

  5. Butterfly Legs: Sit at the base of the bolster, bring the soles of your feet together, and allow your knees to fall out to the sides. Use additional props under the thighs if needed.

  6. Recline and Rest: Lie back over the bolster, adjusting until you feel fully supported. Rest your arms wide, palms facing up.

Tips for Deepening the Practice

  • Stay in the pose for 5–8 minutes, using a timer.

  • Focus on your breath: long inhales and soft, easy exhales.

  • Visualize the chest expanding and softening with each breath.

  • Use a folded blanket under your head for added comfort.

The Kinen Difference

Our eco-friendly yoga mats provide the ideal grip and cushion for supported postures. The textured surface holds your props in place, ensuring a stable foundation for deep, restorative heart openers. Paired with Kinen blocks and bolsters, your practice becomes a sanctuary for release and renewal.

Whether you're releasing emotional weight or simply creating more space in your chest, heart openers in Yin Yoga offer a powerful path to physical and energetic balance. Let your Kinen mat support your journey inward.

Ready to open your heart? Explore our premium yoga mats and props designed to elevate your Yin Yoga practice.

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