Yin yoga, which is a slow and meditative style of yoga that consists of seated and lying postures that are passively held for three to five minutes (or longer), helps participants cultivate the yin type of energy (which is often lacking in Western lifestyles). Yin yoga teaches practitioners to cultivate mindfulness by becoming the non-judgmental observer of their thoughts, feelings, breath, and bodily sensations. Although many styles of yoga focus on stretching and toning muscles, yin yoga instead focuses on working with the deeper connective tissues of the body (including fascia, tendons, ligaments, joints, and bones).