40-min Front Body Openers

What this Yin class is

A 40-minute practice built entirely around the front of the body — a slow sequence of gentle backbends and openers for the chest, shoulders, belly and quads. We ease in with Sphinx and an option to rise into Seal, warm the quads with a soft reclining stretch, then open across the chest in Puppy before settling into Saddle and a long, spacious Banana. Because this is Yin, every shape is held a good while so deep tension can unwind on its own — there’s nothing to push or force, just space to soften and breathe. Come as you are; each pose has a lighter option and a deeper one.

Who this class is for

Anyone who spends a lot of the day rounded forward — at a desk, a wheel, a phone — and wants to open across the chest and front of the shoulders again. It’s lovely if you’re craving a gentle backbending practice without anything strenuous, or if your quads and hips feel tight and closed. New to Yin or to backbends? Read the pose notes below first, keep to the lighter options, and let the held shapes do the work at your own pace.

What you need

Just your mat and a warm, quiet space where you can be still. No props are required — though a cushion or a couple of yoga blocks nearby are always welcome, especially to sit on or lean into during Saddle, or to rest your forehead on in Puppy. A folded blanket under the ankles can help if Saddle feels intense there. Press pause whenever you need to.

How Yin Yoga works — three simple cues

• Find your edge. Come to about 60–80% of your capacity — a real stretch across the front body, but never forcing or straining into the knees or lower back.
• Hold for time. Yin poses are held a while; let the shape do the work. Come out slowly, and sooner if you feel tingling, numbness or any sharp sensation.
• Be still. Settle body and mind, soften the jaw and face, and rest your attention on the breath — using each inhale to open a little more and each exhale to let something go.