Yoga is an ancient practice but is still relevant today. People of all ages, sizes, and abilities have been turning to ancient and modern yogic practices to promote physical and emotional well-being. The benefits of yoga are countless and range from reducing stress and tension, helping to increase flexibility and balance, and even aiding in weight loss.
The practice of “two person yoga” is a great way for two individuals (either friends, family, or partners) to come together, connect, and share the yoga experience with one another. Doing yoga with a partner can offer unique benefits and lead to a deeper practice then if done alone. Additionally, two person poses encourages physical contact and trust.
Two Person Yoga Postures
Partner yoga could take many forms, however, there are some basic postures that are often used as the foundation for a two person practice. Some of the most common poses for beginners practicing two person yoga include: The Temple Pose, Boat Pose, Plank Pose, Tree Pose, Half Saddle Pose, Chair Pose, Warrior Pose and Forward Bend.
The Temple Pose
The Temple Pose is perhaps the best known two person yoga pose as it is one of the easier asanas to learn and execute. Two people are facing each other and standing on either side of a circle. They should both bend their knees slightly and bring their hands together in the prayer position at their hearts.
The Boat Pose
The Boat Pose is an excellent way for two people to use their core strength to hold each other in balance. The partners should stand facing each other and hold each other tightly in a bear hug around the waist. Both should extend their arms wide across the body. They should then lean back into each other and lift their feet off the ground. The pose should be maintained for a few breaths.
The Plank Pose
The Plank Pose is a great way to increase strength and balance while sharing the experience with a partner. To perform the Plank Pose, both partners will assume a bent arm plank position, making sure to keep their abs and lower back engaged. The partners will then slowly align their bodies with each other and try to maintain the plank for at least one breath.
The Tree Pose
The Tree Pose is one of the simpler two person yoga postures. The partners should stand facing each other and bring their hands together in the prayer position. Both partners should extend one of their legs up to the other partners side, and their foot should be flat against their partner’s inner thigh. Both partners should hold this pose for a few breaths.
The Half Saddle Pose
The Half Saddle Pose is a great way to increase flexibility and balance. To perform the Half Saddle Pose, both partners should stand facing each other and extend their arms away from each other. The partners should then both slowly bend at the hip, with their toes remaining facing each other, and their feet slowly coming together. The partners should then slowly lean back into each other and hold the pose for a few breaths.
The Chair Pose
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