Expansion & Space

About This Class

This prop-rich restorative class, led with warmth and mindfulness by Melissa Mercedes, centers on the theme of "expansion and space" — inviting students to cultivate openness on both physical and emotional levels through breath, surrender, and long-held supported poses. Beginning in a bolster-supported child's pose, the sequence progresses through side-lying Savasana (with the bolster cradling the torso and a block supporting the arms), seated bound angle forward fold, supported bridge with a block under the sacrum, a two-knee supine spinal twist, and finally a fully supported Savasana. The instructor consistently emphasizes using props for comfort rather than depth, listening to the body, adjusting as needed, and staying mindful of breath to counteract chronic stress. She weaves in discussion of the physiological benefits of inversions and stillness — including reducing cortisol and norepinephrine — and encourages students to use the practice as a space to meet fear, anxiety, and uncertainty with awareness. Suitable for anyone seeking deep relaxation, nervous system regulation, relief from tension or stiffness, or a grounding mindfulness practice.