Are you looking to improve your flexibility and well-being? Look no further than your own home! Yoga is an excellent way to start stretching your body without ever leaving your living room. All you need is a bit of space and a little creativity and you’ll be on your way to a healthier, happier life.
Cat-Cow Pose
Cat-Cow Pose is a gentle way to start your yoga practice. Begin by coming to a hands and knees position on your yoga mat. Inhale, round the spine and tuck the chin towards the chest, pressing the shoulder blades back and down (this is the cat). Exhale, arch the spine and let the head and tailbone rise toward the ceiling (this is the cow). With each breath, gently switch between cow and cat positions.
Downward Facing Dog
Downward Facing Dog is a classic that is perfect for all level of practitioners. Begin by planting your hands directly under the shoulders and slowly raising your bottom up towards the sky. Begin to straighten the legs and press back, aiming to get your heels to the ground. Soften your knees and focus on keeping your hips aligned with your shoulders. Hold this posture for 5-10 breaths.
Warrior I Pose
Warrior I Pose is great for stretching out the hips and mobilizing the lower body. Begin by standing in mountain pose. Take a large step forward with your right foot, benting the knee deeply into a low lunge. Twist the spine to bring your left arm up to the sky, grounding the left foot and strongly pressing into the right. Gently turn the head to look up at the left arm. Hold for 5-10 breaths before switching sides.
Bridge Pose
Bridge Pose is another excellent way to begin your yoga practice. Begin by lying on your back with your arms alongside of the body, palms down. With an inhale, slightly tuck the chin and press your feet into the floor, lifting the hips off the ground and towards the sky. Reach your arms forward and hold this posture for 5 breaths. Bring the hips back down to the floor before rolling onto your right side to relax.
Child’s Pose
Child’s Pose is a deceptively simple, but powerful, pose for stretching and relaxing the body. Begin by coming to a hands and knees position. Separate the knees slightly and slowly lower the torso over the legs. Rest the arms alongside of the body with the palms facing up. Allow the forehead to rest lightly on the floor, or on a block to reduce strain on the neck. Hold this posture as long as you’d like, before slowly coming back to a hands and knees position.
Yoga is an excellent way to focus on your body, breath, and mind all at the same time. By focusing on the five poses listed above, you’ll be sure to start your practice in a strong,
www.pinterest.com