SUPTA BADDHA KONASANA Level 1: Beginner Benefits: Stretches the inner thighs Hip opener: improves range of external rotation of the hips Can incorporate a heart opening element (with bolster/blocks) Calming and restorative Can aid digestion by activating the parasympathetic 'rest and digest' mode Can be relieving for menstrual cramps and tension Contraindications/Cautions (consult your physician):… Continue reading Reclining Bound Angle Pose: Foundation Yoga Pose Series
PADMASANA Level 2-3: Intermediate-Advanced Benefits: Stable and lengthening foundation for the spine whilst seated/meditating Opens the hips by improving external rotation Calms the mind/nervous system, is very grounding Contraindications/Cautions (consult your physician): Injury or inflammation of the ankles, knees, or pelvis. Do not practice this pose without an instructor present if you are a… Continue reading Lotus: Next Level Yoga Pose Series
USTRASANA Level 2: Intermediate From 'Ustra' meaning camel, and 'asana' meaning pose, camel is an intense posture with many benefits as listed below. Before you attempt it, bear in mind that the posture can result in a very deep backbend, and if you are a beginner I would not recommend experiencing the fuller expressions of… Continue reading Camel: Animal Yoga Pose Series
BHUJUNGASANA Level 1: Beginner Benefits: Strengthens the spine Lengthens the front body Heart-opener, stretches the shoulders and chest Relieves stress and fatigue Firms the buttocks and inner legs Can aid digestion by stimulating lower abdominal organs Some women find it beneficial for menstrual cramps Prepares the body for deeper backbends Contraindications/Cautions (consult your physician): Injuries/inflammation… Continue reading Cobra: Animal Yoga Pose Series
SAMASTHITI/TADASANA Level 1: Beginner This is a neutral standing posture, but one which requires your poise and attention! ‘Sama’ means same/balanced, and ‘sthiti’ means standing/upright in Sanskrit, whilst 'tada' means mountain, and 'asana' mean pose. These names are sometimes used interchangeably by different yoga teachers, but essentially this is an active posture that requires gentle focus.… Continue reading Neutral standing/Mountain Pose: Foundation Yoga Pose Series
GARUDASANA Level 1: Beginner Benefits: Strengthens the legs/ankles/feet and back/shoulders Releases tension in the back and shoulders Enhances balance and focus Contraindications/Cautions (consult your physician): Ankle/knee/shoulder injuries Vestibular/balance problems Thrombosis Severe varicose veins 1). Find neutral standing in Samasthiti 2). Inhale arms up and cross the left elbow over the right elbow in front of… Continue reading Eagle: Animal Yoga Pose Series
GOMUKHASANA Level 1: Beginner Originating from 'go' meaning 'cow' in Sanskrit, and 'mukha' meaning 'face', this posture is so-called as the crossed legs look like the lips of the cow, and the arms, with one up and one down, look like the ears. Hence, cow face! Benefits: Stretches the shoulders and arms, improves flexibility and… Continue reading Cow Face: Animal Yoga Pose Series
