Introduction: The Lotus Pose, also known as Padmasana, is a traditional ancient pose that expresses calm when seated. Asana means posture, while Padma means lotus in Sanskrit. Students can advance to meditation and pranayama with this foundational intermediate sitting restorative pose. In Sanskrit, padma is a powerful symbol that is independent of both religion and…
Introduction: Salabhasana (Locust Pose) is a gentle yet powerful back-strengthening yoga posture that involves lifting the chest, arms, and legs off the ground while lying prone. Salabhasana means “grasshopper” in Sanskrit, as the name suggests. The body will therefore resemble that of a grasshopper in this position. The Sivananda and Iyengar Schools of Yoga have…
Introduction: Halasana (Plough Pose) is a traditional yoga posture in which the legs are brought overhead while lying on the back, creating a shape similar to a plough used in farming. This pose deeply stretches the spine, shoulders, and hamstrings while helping to improve flexibility and posture. Asana indicates position or posture, whereas Hala signifies…
Introduction: Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand Pose), often called the “Queen of Yoga Poses,” is a powerful inverted posture that benefits the entire body. Three terms make up Sarvangasana: “Sarva” (meaning “entire”), “Anga” (meaning “body part”), and “Asana” (meaning “pose”). Sarvangasana, also called Shoulderstand Pose, is referred to as the “Mother of all Yoga Poses” due to…
Introduction: Salamba Sirsasana, also known as Headstand Pose (Sirsasana), is an advanced inverted yoga pose that requires power in the head, neck, elbows, and core. This pose is primarily found in Hatha Yoga Sequences and requires mindfulness of the breath, body, and mind. Only skilled yoga instructors should lead the practice because improper posture and…
Introduction: Sukhasana (Easy Pose) is a simple cross-legged seated yoga posture that promotes relaxation, stability, and mindfulness. As the name suggests, Sukhasana (Easy Pose) combines Sthira, which means “Steadiness,” with Sukha, which means “Pleasure.” These two Sanskrit terms form the cornerstone of a good yoga practice. It’s a seated pose for beginners. As a result,…
Introduction: Savasana, also known as Corpse Pose, is a final resting pose that involves resting and grounding. The Sanskrit terms Sava (corpse/dead body) and Asana (pose/posture) are the source of the name Savasana. As a result, this supine position is inherently healing. Consequently, cool-down yoga positions include Savasana. Savasana assists learners in releasing stiffness in…
Introduction: Peacock Pose (Mayurasana) is an advanced yoga posture that requires strong wrists, arms, and core muscles. In Peacock Pose, the body represents the peacock (mayura), with the hands shaped like the bird’s legs and the legs resembling its feathers. To avoid excessive strain on the elbows and wrists, it is essential to warm up…
Introduction: Crow Pose (Bakasana) is a popular arm-balancing yoga pose that builds strength, balance, and body awareness. Bakasana, where Baka = Crane, is frequently used interchangeably with Kakasana, where Kaka = Crow and Asana = Pose. These are two arm-balancing positions. In Crane Pose (Bakasana), the arms are straight like a crane bird, whereas in…
Introduction: Boat Pose (Navasana) is a popular yoga posture that focuses on strengthening the core muscles, improving balance, and enhancing overall stability. The Sanskrit terms paripurna (entire or full/complete) and nava (boat) are the sources of the name Paripurna Navasana (Complete Boat Pose). Seated or supine, Paripurna Navasana (Complete Boat Pose) is an intermediate-level pose….
