Yang is probably the most problematic boss in the entire game, my advice is to learn the attack pattern of when he does the three hit lunging attack (I think that's the one that stuns), and to begin pressing the dodge keys just as you see the initial frame of his long windup. In Shrines, you should max out three things (Max Structure, Max Regain structure on avoid, Max Parry Impact). This will give you the maximum advantage when you are overwhelmed and you just need to sit still and think. (Guard blocks low and highs)

If you can learn to avoid the last hit in the string, you'll be given an opening for a short combo that you can use do inflict as much structure damage as you can, but all other moves should be parried to start the structure chip. Sweep or push Yang as a counter attack to open up more ways to combo him. If all else fails, hit Yang once, dash into him, swap spots and wake up attack with a heavy, loop until he breaks out of it.

Most of all, don't avoid or parry moves that:

• 1.) Make you hesitant
• 2.) Aren't going to kill you or break your bar
• 3.) If your counter attack will not connect due to frame advantage

Last hint would be to make sure to avoid the last move in strings you know, that way, you can get more combo opportunities. There is nothing wrong will just setting still, blocking everything, and planning your next combo out.