It seems like yoga has become more popular than ever these days. The centuries’ old practice can be found in almost every corner of the world and it’s no surprise that more people are turning to it to improve their health and wellbeing. Yoga might seem a bit complicated at first, but with a few basics, even a beginner can dive right into exploring the different poses.
Mountain Pose
Mountain Pose (Tadasana) is a great starting point for all other poses. It is used to help you find your center, create balance, and release held tension. To do this pose, stand with your feet together and arms on your sides. Engage your leg muscles and draw your thighbones up toward your pelvis. Start to grow up through the crown of your head, lengthening your spine. Let your palms face the sides of your body and relax the back of your neck. Remain here with a soft gaze.
Warrior I Pose
Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I) poses are dynamic, powerful poses that can help create strength and concentration. To achieve this, stand with your feet about four feet apart. Turn your right foot out to the side and angle your back foot to be perpendicular. Bend your right knee to 90 degrees, keeping your back leg as straight as possible, aligning your right knee over your ankle. Reach your arms up and allow your heart to feel open and alive.
Chair Pose
Chair Pose (utkatasana) is a great way to build strength in your lower body. Start by standing with your feet together and your hands reaching up toward the sky. Bend your knees and lower your hips as if you’re sitting in a chair. Keep your knees aligned and don’t let them drift past your toes. Feel the pressure and tension in your quads and your glutes and press firmly into the floor with your feet. The movement should be slow and steady.
Downward Facing Dog Pose
Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) is a classic yoga pose that extends your entire body and helps to build strength. Start by coming to a plank position, and then gently, allowing your heels to press into the floor and your arms to be straight. Reach through your fingertips and feel your shoulders draw back and down. On each exhalation, press your thighs and heels back while wiggling your toes. Allow your head relax and also feel the stretch along your calf muscles.
These are just a few of the many amazing yoga postures you can explore. To improve your practice, always listen to your body and explore these poses intuitively. Embrace the challenge and take the time to find balance, strength, and even more safety in each posture. As you practice, strive for more pleasure and less effort to create balance and harmony in your body.
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