Yoga is an amazing way to keep your body and mind healthy and alive. For many of us, we tend to practice most often as solitary individuals, focusing on our own breathing, stretching, and meditation. But did you know that yoga can also be a two-person experience? Practicing certain two-person yoga poses can increase flexibility, balance, and the ability to come together with someone else to achieve a greater result. Here are two yoga poses that you and a partner can practice together.
Double Tree Pose
The double tree pose (Vrikshasana) is a classic pose not only for yoga devotees, but for those of us who need a reminder of the power of balance. Here’s how to do this pose with a partner:
- Begin by standing with your feet hip width apart, facing your partner.
- Place your hands on your hips and take a few breaths to center yourself.
- Engage your legs and raise your right knee. Your partner should do the same.
- Gently wrap your right arms around each other’s waist. Make sure to keep your right shoulder blades stacked directly on top of one another.
- If it is comfortable, press the outside of your right foot into your partner’s right calf. Draw your head away from your partner and look at the horizon.
- Hold this pose for 5 breaths before releasing and taking a few moments of rest.
Wheel Pose
The wheel pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana) is a great way to work on not only individual strength, but collective strength. Here’s how to do this pose with a partner:
- Start lying on your backs with your feet hip-width apart.
- On an inhalation, engage your legs as you roll onto your bellies.
- Encircle your hands over your shoulders and around your partner’s back to brace for support.
- Engage your feet into the floor and lift your chests with the leverage of your hands.
- Look forward or gaze toward your partner with a smile.
- Hold this pose for 5 breaths before releasing and taking a few moments of rest.
These two poses are just a few examples of two-person poses that you and your partner can practice. Safety and comfort come first, and you should always listen to your body’s needs. People of any ability level can modify these poses however necessary. Don’t forget to aim to keep your breath smooth and calm in each pose.
Two-person yoga poses offer exciting ways to stay connected with yourself and with your partner. Give these two poses a try and see how they can help to deepen your practice.
yogaposes.arasbar.com