José de Groot

José de Groot

José specialises in teaching Yin Yoga and Anatomy Teacher Trainings. She also has a passion for dance and an interest in philosophy, psychology and Chinese medicine.

All levels
53:55
Replenish your energy
José de Groot
Yin Yoga, Therapeutic
When we’re ill or recovering from being ill, our energy reserves tend to need some extra support. If you’ve been - or are - sick and need a boost of fundamental energy, then this restoring Yin class is for you.Sickness can leave our bodies feeling stiff and strained, due to chi stagnation. So the goal of this class is to restore our energy, get the toxins out and regain mobility. We’ll do poses that release the base of the skull, the sacroiliac area and get the spine moving in all directions. In doing so we’ll boost the Kidney energy (the home of our life force energy) by stimulating the Conception & Governing Vessel and Urinary Bladder and Kidney meridians with various poses. We’ll start with gentle movements to release tension in the skull and lower back area. Then we’ll continue with poses that free up the spine. We will also use balls (tennis balls if you have them) to stimulate points along the spine and release even deeper tension. Experiment with positioning your body in order to find the ' juicy' - most of the time tender - spots along the spine. If it’s too intense, move away from the area a little, so you can relax more deeply. This is essential so that the pressure of the balls and gravity can work their magic. Then right after we will slip into Shavasana, so make sure you are comfortable and warm. As always, different options are given for each pose so you can adapt them to your possibilities. Props: blanket, pillow, bolster, belt, 4 tennis balls and 2 socks (José will explain how to use these during the practice).
All levels
59:54
Detox with balls
José de Groot
Yin Yoga
Do you feel frustrated or angry and lack patience? Do you have a lot of stress in your life? Do you feel stiffness in the sides of your body? If so, this intense Yin session, which detoxes and relaxes your mind and body, is for you!In this session we’ll stimulate the side body, buttocks, hips, SI-joint and spine with Yin poses and balls to release the deeper muscular and fascia knots. (This is also known as myofascial release or deep tissue release). The poses can release intense sensations or emotions so don’t be surprised if resistance and anger is triggered. If this happens, stay calm and observe; it's a good thing they're being released.We start by using the balls to stimulate the middle part of the back (acupuncture points BL19&48, BL20&49, BL21&50, BL22&51) which will stimulate the organs, Gallbladder and/or Spleen. Adjust your body in order to find the juicy spot. If it’s too intense move away from the area a little, so you can relax more easily. Relaxation of the muscles we target is essential so that the pressure of the balls and gravity can work their magic. We’ll continue with poses that target the bum and the side body – the areas of the Gallbladder and Liver meridians – to allow the blood and energy to flow freely again. This results in a more relaxed and compassionate state of being. We will finish with Shavasana and/or meditation.Props: 2 socks with 2 tennis balls in each, 2 blocks, bolster, blanket, belt, cushion.Part of the Yin Yoga and the 5 Elements program.
All levels
07:16
How loud is your internal judge?
José de Groot
Yin Yoga, Yin Yang Yoga
Let go of judgmental thoughts towards yourself and others. Feel free and embrace change! Judgmental thoughts can be very toxic for our overall health and relationships with others. However small these thoughts are, we all have them - most of the time without even noticing them. They are that fast. These thoughts fuel the way we react in certain situations or towards others.The internal judge may seem helpful when fine tuning ideas about what’s good and what’s not or when we want to create structure, and it's a driving force for discipline. But when the judge is too prominent it can be very restrictive, and living from the heart – with lightness, joy and fun – has no space. Everything becomes negative, heavy and hard to digest. You can literally experience pressure or tension on the heart, lungs and belly, which all long for freedom.In order to melt judgment and strictness with ourselves and others, we need to be in the moment and connect to our heart: we have to stop, tune in and feel. To be able to make a change it's essential to become aware of our thought patterns first. So in this Yin class we will dive deep inside and I'll invite you to make an intention to notice your judgments and the effect they have on you and your environment. By asking ourselves some simple questions, we will approach the thoughts from a different perspective.Physically we will target the chest, diaphragm, belly and shoulders with various Yin poses, some Yang movements and deep diaphragmatic breathing to get rid of stagnation and tension. We'll also use blocks to help stimulate the fascia to get a deeper release. Be prepared to release emotions as well.Everyone can benefit from this class and different options are given for each pose, so you can adapt them to your needs. Props needed: two blankets, blocks, bolster and pillow.
All levels
05:45
Trust to grow
José de Groot
Yin Yoga
Can you trust that whatever life throws at you is there to help you grow?To truly surrender and trust is scary. It means letting go of all that you think should or shouldn’t be there. It means letting go of willpower, opinions, doubts and control – stuff that our mind clings to and which literally creates a forcefully upright spine to deal with what is to come. Truly surrendering and trusting means being vulnerable, deeply feeling what life throws at you and being aware of what is triggered inside.It also means trusting your inner wisdom. This is more than 'intuition'; it's a deep knowing or understanding that everything and everybody is connected, that whatever is presented in our lives is exactly how it should be. And that it is an invitation to deeply connect with yourself and to grow from what triggers you.Trusting whatever triggers or affects us deeply are important lessons to learn, and this Yin yoga class can provide a safe environment in which to practice this. It's a space in which you can feel and become aware of what triggers you on a physical, emotional or mental level while being in a pose. And then to be able to let go of what no longer serves you – be it thoughts, behaviour or old patterns – to truly shine and be the star you are!So trust to grow! This practice will invite you to dive deep inside, step out of your comfort zone and stimulate, release and surrender the spine – the physical home of our stamina, energy and source. Make it your intention to really let your triggers and struggles come to the surface, to live through them, to then be able to learn from and/or to let go of them. We'll stimulate the spine – neck, upper back and lower back – using various Yin poses. Be prepared to release emotions along the way. Different options are given for each pose, so it's suitable for everyone. Props needed: two blankets, blocks, bolster and pillow.This class is part of the Yin Yoga and the 5 Elements program.
All levels
07:25
Yin with balls and blocks
José de Groot
Yin Yoga, Therapeutic
Do you often have headaches, neck ache, or tension in between the shoulder blades, lower back and buttocks? Is it difficult to release that tension with your yoga practice? Then this session is for you!Using 4 tennis balls, 2 socks and a block you will release muscular and fascia knots (this practice is also known as myofascial or deep tissue release) in the neck, upper and lower back and buttocks. We start at the neck, using a block to stimulate the area just below the skull (the area of acupuncture points UB10 & GB20). This helps to diminish headaches, neck stiffness, shoulder and back pain. We continue with Yin poses, using tennis balls to stimulate the area in between the shoulder blades, lower back and SI-joint, finishing at the buttocks.Play around with the position of your body in order to find the juicy spots. If it is too intense, move away from the area a little so you can relax more easily. Relaxation of the muscles we target with the balls or block is essential so that the pressure and gravity can work their magic. If you tense your muscles you might end up having bruises. The idea is to completely surrender and let go. While tension is released, stored emotions can arise as well; just allow them to come. At the end we will slip into Savasana right away, so make sure you are comfy and warm when you practice. This is a great practice to do before going to sleep!Props needed are: a block, 4 tennis balls and 2 sport socks (I will explain how to use these during the practice), a pillow or bolster and a blanket.
All levels
52:10
Third trimester tension release
José de Groot
Mixed movement, Yin Yang Yoga
Are you in your third trimester and you would like to enhance your lung capacity and at the same time work on your pelvic floor? Then this Mixed movement Flow is for you. We start with deepening the deep belly breathing to enhance your breathing, which gets more difficult now as your organs are pushed up close to your diaphragm. Therefore breathing towards the side ribs and towards the kidneys - which boosts your energy - is the way to go. As your breath is deeper more oxygen will be given to you and your baby. We then combine the breath with Kegel (pelvic floor) exercises suited for women while still pregnant. Starting with movements to release liquid retention in the joints, followed by a prenatal sun salutation to strengthen your legs, work on your balance and open up the back and side body. You will finish the practice with a Yin pose that will help you relax and release the last tensions in your body. Finally we relax in a guided Savasana and end with an optional meditation. In the whole sequence you want to stay attuned with what you feel. If in any moment you feel pain, dizziness or nausea, take a moment to rest and breathe. If you practice the Kegels and you would like to do more, the please do so. Different options for the poses are given, so you can adapt them to your needs. This is a great practice to deepen your breath, strengthen your body and pelvic floor, work on your balance and connect with your baby. Props you will need: bolster, pillow, blanket and blocks.If you’re pregnant and you’ve never done yoga before, please consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner before doing so. Always listen to your body and stop if something doesn’t feel right.
All levels
52:51
Pelvic floor - third trimester pregnancy
José de Groot
Mixed movement, Yin Yoga, Yin Yang Yoga
Are you in your third trimester and looking to release tension in your upper body and work on your pelvic floor? Then this Mixed movement Yin flow is for you. Starting with deep belly breathing to enhance circulation and give your baby the oxygen it needs, followed by Kegel (pelvic floor) exercises suited for pregnant women. This practice opens up the chest, arms and side body, enhances blood circulation, creates more space for your baby and circulates more oxygen throughout the body. You will move the spine, hips and legs to release, tone and strengthen these areas to be able to carry the extra weight, as well as releasing tension in the buttocks and legs; areas that tend to tighten up during the day. Make sure you stay attuned with how you feel during this class. If you experience pain, dizziness or nausea, take a moment to rest and breathe. If you practice the Kegel exercises and would like to do more, then please do so. Different options for the poses are given, so you can adapt them to your needs. This is a great session to strengthen your pelvic floor, enhance your breathing and connect with and feel your baby, whilst at the same time taking care of yourself. Props: bolster, pillow, blanket and a belt.If you’re pregnant and you’ve never done yoga before, please consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner before doing so. Always listen to your body and stop if something doesn’t feel right. 
All levels
46:18
Prenatal Sun Salutation - Second trimester
José de Groot
Mixed movement, Vinyasa Flow, Slow Flow
Are you pregnant, in your second trimester and looking for a Prenatal Sun Salutation? Then this session is for you! Your yoga practice is a great way to create some time for yourself and to connect with the little wonder that is growing in your belly. Starting by connecting with your baby using your breath, then becoming aware of your feelings, physical sensations and thoughts to help you set an intention. Then you will move the spine in different ways while gently hugging the baby towards you on the exhale. In doing so you will gently contract the pelvic floor to diminish the pressure of the baby on that area. The movements that follow will enhance the blood circulation, create more space for your baby and send more oxygen throughout your body and to your baby. The standing poses help to strengthen the legs, pelvic and back muscles, which need to be strong to hold the weight of your growing belly and also for labour. You will also release tension back, legs and hips. Finally, options are given for Savasana.Throughout the prenatal Sun Salutation stay attuned with what you feel. If you experience pain, dizziness or nausea, take a moment to rest and breathe. Different options are given for each pose, so you can adapt them to your needs. Props needed: bolster, pillow, blanket and blocks.If you’re pregnant and you’ve never done yoga before, please consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner before doing so. Always listen to your body and stop if something doesn’t feel right. 
1/2
55:04
Juicy prenatal first trimester flow
José de Groot
Mixed movement, Vinyasa Flow, Yin Yang Yoga
Pregnant, in your first trimester and looking for a stronger, prenatal yoga class? Then this Yin-Yang session is for you! This session is great for pregnant yoginis who have a regular yoga practice. Starting off with connecting with your baby in your belly, your heart, feelings and the breath. The deep belly breathing will give your baby all the oxygen, energy and love it needs. This is followed by Yang movements to open up the back, shoulders and chest, enhance blood circulation and release built-up tension. Next, the stronger part of the sequence, which works on the upper body and leg strength - this is important during pregnancy to help you support the weight of your growing belly. At the end you will calm down with some Yin poses to stretch the shoulders and back, finishing the session with a guided Savasana and/or meditation. In both the Yin and Yang parts, please stay attuned with how you feel. If at any moment you feel pain, dizziness or nausea, take a moment to rest and breathe. If you want to repeat a certain parts to get an even stronger practice, please do. This session will leave you feeling stronger, more open and less tense; it also will help you to connect with your baby while taking care of yourself. Different options are given for each pose, so you can adapt them to your needs.Props: blanket, blocks, bolster and/or pillow.If you’re pregnant and you’ve never done yoga before, please consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner before doing so. Always listen to your body and stop if something doesn’t feel right. 
1/2
52:23
Strong prenatal first trimester flow
José de Groot
Yin Yang Yoga
Are you pregnant, in your first trimester with a regular yoga practice and seeking a challenging prenatal yoga class? Then this Yin-Yang session is for you.The class begins with tuning in and connecting to the breath and baby in your belly, using deep belly breathing to give your baby all the oxygen, energy and love it needs. Then you will twist and circle the spine to release built-up tension due to your rapidly changing body. Fluid retention or swollen legs can arise during pregnancy, so moving each joint in a certain way can allow the fluid to drain and let chi flow more freely.Gradually we build up to the stronger part of the sequence, moving the spine and shoulders and working on leg and back strength and flexibility. Strength and flexibility is very important during pregnancy, making it easier to carry the weight as your belly grows. Opening up the side body will also stimulate and stretch the skin, possibly diminishing stretch marks.Towards the end of the session we come to the floor and practice poses that open up the chest, and belly. Savasana is guided and we end with a short meditation.Throughout the session remember to stay attuned to what you feel. If in any moment you feel pain, dizziness or nausea, take a moment to rest and breathe. If you want to repeat certain parts to get an even stronger practice, please do. This class will leave you feeling more energised, tension-free and connected with your baby. Different options are given for each pose so you can adapt them to your needs. Props: blanket, blocks, bolster and/or pillow.If you’re pregnant and you’ve never done yoga before, please consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner before doing so. Always listen to your body and stop if something doesn’t feel right. 
All levels
41:38
Gentle prenatal first trimester flow
José de Groot
Mixed movement, Yin Yang Yoga, Slow Flow
Are you pregnant, in your first trimester and looking for a mild but energising prenatal yoga class? Then this Yin-Yang session is for you!Connecting at first with your baby in your belly by turning inwards and becoming aware of your feelings and thoughts. You'll continue with some deep belly breathing to give your baby all the oxygen, energy and love it needs, then moving the arms and spine to let go of the built-up tension in your changing upper body. We also compress, stretch and strengthen the lower back, which can get sore due to the softening of the connecting tissues and/or bad posture. Continuing with standing poses to work on balance, as well as strengthening and opening up the thighs and side body. The back body (spine and legs) can also stiffen, so at the end we will finish with Yin poses for the legs. Ending with a guided Savasana and a short meditation.Throughout the session you want to stay attuned with what you feel. If at any moment you feel pain, dizziness or nausea, take a moment to rest and breath. You don't want to go looking for new edges, as your body will become more flexible due to the relaxin hormone. Use the practice to strengthen, release uncomfortable tensions and connect with yourself and your baby during this special time. This session will leave you feeling energised and with less nausea. Different options are given for each pose, so you can adapt them to your needs. Props: blanket, blocks, bolster and/or pillow, belt.If you’re pregnant and you’ve never done yoga before, please consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner before doing so. Always listen to your body and stop if something doesn’t feel right. 
All levels
15:25
Opening up your side body - practicing functionally
José de Groot
Yin Yang Yoga
Do you want to practice functionally and therapeutically? This class starts with a short talk in which José explains how to practice yoga poses in a functional way, meaning: feeling the purpose of a pose instead of copying a picture of a pose. As each pose stimulates different areas of your body, the idea is to practice the pose in such a way you will experience the stimulated area while performing it; getting its therapeutic benefits. In this Yin session you will stimulate the lateral side of your body, opening up your inner and outer thighs, hips, bum, lateral sides of your torso and shoulders, while doing various side-bends. In the sides of our bodies we tend to hold a lot of tension, due to our very yang-ish lifestyle. Emotions like irritation can be released during this practice, making you calm in the end. The focus of this class is directed breathing. The breath affects every cell in the body, so when you combine bringing attention to the breath and directing it to a specific region, the energy moving towards a certain area is doubly increased. This session starts and finishes with meditation, and again, various options for poses are given. You might also like to practice José's accompanying class: Opening up your front body. Props: blanket, pillow, blocks, belt. If you're interested in studying online with Jose, take a look at her certified, 50-hr online Yin yoga teacher training on the EkhartYoga Academy.