This class is about half Yang (vinyasa flow, with a some effort) and about half Yin (longer holds, with minimal effort). I affectionately think of this style as "yinyasa." It's a very effective way to get into some deeper hip openers, as the flowing movements and standing poses lubricate and prepare the hip joints for the sustained holds that come later. The practice asks us to balance our efforts with a sense of surrender.

The poses in class are loosely framed around a posture called yogidandasana, in which the body twists while deeply folding into the hip. While many will not be able to do that huge pose in class, the preparatory work for it will help create some sense release for all hips. These deep poses often open up when we relinquish the grasping and striving and allow ourselves to enter with a sense of sweetness, ease and a lot of breath.

For class, you will be happy if you have access two yoga blocks. I also highly recommend a bolster. If you don't have a bolster, grab 2 or 3 blankets or bath towels instead.