Yoga can be an excellent way to increase your strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. Taking your practice to the next level—advanced yoga poses—can be a great way to challenge yourself and progress your practice. Advanced poses may look intimidating, but with practice and patience, they can be achieved with great satisfaction.
Crow Pose
Crow Pose is an excellent introduction to more difficult arm balances. It requires focused core strength, with your arms and shoulders supporting most of your weight. Make sure your wrist is stacked below your elbows, that your shins are anchored onto your upper arms, and activate your core and legs to keep your balance. Over time, this pose can opens up the hips and shoulder while helping to maintain healthy posture.
Headstand Pose
Not only is a headstand a great way to improve balance and core strength, it can also provide a great boost of energy at the start of a busy day. To ensure you stay safe and balanced, move conservatively and use the wall for support. Keep your core engaged and trust that your balance and strength will improve over time.
King Pigeon Pose
With a strong focus on the hips, this pose is great for those looking for a deeper hip opener. Most students find it easier to enter the pose from a lowered position. Bend one knee to the elbow, then lift your hips up and extend the leg. You may also place a cushion beneath your back to provide more support. Over time, you may be able to move closer to the ground while maintaining a comfortable position.
One-Legged Extended Eagle Pose
Aside from challenging your balance, this pose also helps to open up the hips, wrists and shoulders. Start in a standing position with the arms crossed over each other. Bend one knee, then lean forward while lifting your arms away from the bent knee. This pose can be quite challenging, so try to keep your breath steady and relax your facial muscles while you practice.
Scorpion Pose
This very challenging arm balance is known for engaging all parts of your body—your core, arms, legs and shoulders—to stay balanced. To get into this pose, start with your feet on the floor, then shift your weight to your arms before arching your back and bringing your feet up toward your head. Make sure your wrists are stacked below your elbows and core is engaged so you can maintain your balance.
Advanced yoga poses can be a great way to challenge yourself, deepen your practice and experience greater strength and flexibility. Remember to practice each of these poses safely and mindfully, and give yourself plenty of time to build up your strength before attempting a brand new pose.
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