Yin yoga is a quiet practice suitable for students of all levels of experience. Practitioners are offered an opportunity to surrender, slow down and come back to balance. Many of the poses are seated, supine or prone and are held with muscles relaxed for several minutes. The Yin parts of our body are the parts that lie closest to our core, specifically the bones and connective tissue. Muscles prefer movement and repetition and are considered the Yang parts. Remaining muscularly passive for periods of time gently stretches dense connective tissue of the lower back, hips and spine, which may otherwise become stiff and less mobile as we age. There is a focus on the breath, being present in the moment, relieving tension and letting go. The Yin practice includes powerful mental and emotional benefits as its practitioner becomes quiet, still and mindful of the present.