The longer holds and passive shapes in Yin allow us to work with the connective tissues of the body (rather than just our muscles). This can allow a deep feeling of release.
We learn a lot about ourselves in Yin - from the unique structure of our bodies, to the way our minds respond to the challenge of holding a particular shape, to the moments of insight that come out of deep contemplation.
This is a great practice to do if you are feeling exhausted or depleted. The forms are very passive which allows us focused time to rest and restore.
We can often get to a state of meditation more easily than in a seated practice. Even though we stay pretty still in Yin, there is always so much to observe as the sensations in our bodies evolve it can be easier to stay present.
Yin encourages us to activate the Parasympathetic Nervous System - if you have a busy or stressful everyday life this can be a great practice to bring the mind and body back to balance.
Many people say they have a great nights sleep after Yin and feel very rejuvenated the following day.