<http://schema.org/articleBody>
"   Sometimes you just need an un-workout, or an exercise that doesn&amp;#039;t really feel like exercise. After a strenuous workout or even a busy day, I crave a lower-intensity routine to give my body time to regroup and heal. Yin Yoga, a new DVD by Jennifer Kries, gives you the permission to chill out with moves that progress to a full-body cool down.  Unlike other more physical yoga styles, Yin Yoga uses a breathing technique to relax and reenergize muscles and tissues. This DVD contains three 20-minute segments that start with beginner moves, like the butterfly, and end with advanced stretches, like the saddle and full-forward bend. Each move is held for a 10-breath count, but Kries encourages you to take it further and hold for five to 10 minutes to get the most out of the stretch.   Now, all you need is a comfortable surface to cushion your body movements, and off you go! My fit pick: YogaForce A-Line Mat (yogaforce.com) that&amp;#039;s now available in recyclable material. I loved the orange stripes on the mat that guide your body to ensure proper yoga alignment.  Get this flick at razorfitness.com, amazon.com or wherever DVDs are sold ($14.99). Total running time: 75 minutes.  Feeling particularly Yin? Here are a couple moves from Jennifer Kries for you to try at home:  Do the Twist: Begin by lying on your back with your knees comfortably bent. Inhale. Squeeze your knees together and drop them slowly to the left side while keeping your shoulder blades planted on the floor. Try to have your knees form a 90-degree angle to your body to feel the full stretch in your hips. Focus your breath and hold the position for 3 to 5 minutes. Repeat on the right side.  Forward Bend: If you have lower back problems or tight hamstrings, this stretch is for you. Sit and extend both legs straight out to about hip-width apart or narrower. Begin by dropping your chin toward your chest, and then slowly lean forward toward your legs. Try to grasp your ankles or feet with your hands while keeping your leg muscles relaxed. Breathe into this stretch and hold for 3 to 5 minutes or more.  Learn more about Yin Yoga at jenniferkries.com.  What exercise technique has a calming effect on you? Tell me about it in comments. "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.womansday.com/life/a41267/stretch-it-out-5993/>