Taking the time to develop a home asana practice is hard enough. Add a restorative element and you've got another challenge. But for me, restorative yoga is essential, especially during the holidays when designated chill-time keeps me sane and grounded.

Thanks to yogitoes and one of Los Angeles' favorite teachers, Annie Carpenter, the new relaxDeeply CD ($24.95) is a no-brainer path to relaxation. With three options -- the full 73 minutes, a 32 minute moonCYCLE sequence or the sleepWELL 41 minute choice -- Carpenter takes you on a soothing journey that allows you to sink comfortably into poses like Viparita Karani, Supta Baddha Konasana and Balasana accompanied by a mellow soundtrack of Michael Perricone's Tibetan bowl music.

You'll need props to get the full benefit (a bolster, a couple blankets, a block and a strap should suffice). Carpenter's expert direction and the accompanying booklet that gives detailed photographs helps you to transition from pose to pose to pose.

But if you want to get the full yogitoes rKit, you can purchase all the props plus the CD for $225 (gift idea, anyone?). And I have to say, I think the yogitoes prop line is one of the chicest and sleekest out there, thanks to the vision of yogitoes founder Susan Nichols.

So take some relaxation time this holiday season and let us know how you unwind.