Yoga

Plank Pose (Phalakasana) Interesting Fact Phalakasana, commonly known as Plank Pose, is a foundational yoga pose that is often used in various fitness routines. It is not only a yoga pose but also a staple in many strength training programs due to its effectiveness in building core strength. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Phalakasana Exiting […]

Pigeon Pose (Kapotasana) Interesting Fact Kapotasana, or Pigeon Pose, is named for its resemblance to a pigeon with its chest puffed out. This pose is known for its deep hip-opening benefits and is often used to release emotional tension stored in the hips. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Kapotasana Exiting the Pose Counter Poses Pro

Peacock Pose (Mayurasana) Interesting Fact Mayurasana, or Peacock Pose, is named for its resemblance to a peacock with its feathers fanned out. This pose is an advanced arm balance that has been practiced for centuries in Hatha yoga, symbolizing beauty, strength, and grace. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Mayurasana Exiting the Pose Counter Poses Pro

Noose/Rope Pose (Pasasana) Interesting Fact Pasasana, or Noose Pose, gets its name from the Sanskrit word “pasa,” meaning “knot” or “loop.” The pose resembles a noose or loop created by binding the arms around the legs while in a deep squat. This advanced pose challenges both strength and flexibility, making it a staple in Ashtanga

Mountain Pose (Tadasana) Interesting Fact Tadasana, or Mountain Pose, is often considered the foundation of all standing yoga poses. Despite its simplicity, it embodies the essence of stability and strength, much like a mountain. This pose is also known as Samasthiti, which translates to “equal standing,” emphasizing balance and symmetry. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing

Marichi’s Pose III (Marichyasana III) Interesting Fact Marichi’s Pose III, or Marichyasana III, is named after the sage Marichi, one of the seven great sages (Saptarishi) in Hindu mythology. The name “Marichi” translates to “ray of light,” symbolizing the enlightenment and clarity that this pose can bring to your practice. Benefits Physical Benefits: Energetic Benefits:

Marichi’s Pose II (Marichyasana II) Interesting Fact Marichi’s Pose II, or Marichyasana II, is named after the sage Marichi, one of the seven great sages (Saptarishi) in Hindu mythology. The name “Marichi” means “ray of light,” symbolizing the enlightenment and clarity that this pose can bring to your practice. Benefits Physical Benefits: Energetic Benefits: Contraindications

Marichi’s Pose I (Marichyasana I) Interesting Fact Marichi’s Pose I, or Marichyasana I, is named after the sage Marichi, one of the sons of Brahma, the creator of the universe in Hindu mythology. The name “Marichi” translates to “ray of light,” symbolizing the illumination and insight that this pose can bring to your practice. Benefits

Low Lunge Pose (Anjaneyasana) Interesting Fact The Low Lunge Pose, also known as Anjaneyasana, is named after the Hindu deity Hanuman, who is often depicted in a kneeling position. This pose symbolizes Hanuman’s devotion and strength, making it a powerful asana both physically and energetically. Benefits Physical Benefits: Energetic Benefits: Contraindications Detailed Description Dristi (Gaze):

Lotus Pose (Padmasana) Interesting Fact Did you know that the Lotus Pose, or Padmasana, is named after the lotus flower, which symbolizes purity and enlightenment in many cultures? This pose is often depicted in ancient texts and sculptures as the preferred posture for meditation and spiritual practices. Benefits of Lotus Pose Physical Benefits: Energetic Benefits:

Locust Pose (Shalabhasana) Interesting Fact: Locust Pose, or Shalabhasana, is named after the locust insect, which is known for its ability to leap great distances. This pose mimics the shape of a locust in flight, providing a powerful backbend that strengthens and energizes the body. Benefits of Locust Pose Physical Benefits: Energetic Benefits: Contraindications Practice

Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani) Interesting Fact: Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose, or Viparita Karani, is often referred to as an “inverted lake” pose. This restorative inversion is known for its calming and rejuvenating effects, making it a favorite among yogis for relaxation and recovery. It is also one of the few poses that can be practiced by almost

Eka Pada Rajakapotasana (One-Legged King Pigeon Pose) Interesting Fact Eka Pada Rajakapotasana, or One-Legged King Pigeon Pose, is named for its resemblance to a pigeon puffing out its chest. This pose is a deep hip opener and backbend that requires both flexibility and strength, making it a favorite among advanced yoga practitioners. Benefits Contraindications Practice

Utthita Ashwa Sanchalanasana (High Lunge Pose) Interesting Fact: Utthita Ashwa Sanchalanasana, also known as High Lunge Pose, is a dynamic and powerful pose that is often used in Vinyasa and Ashtanga yoga sequences. The name “Ashwa Sanchalanasana” translates to “Horse Riding Pose,” symbolizing the strength and stability required to hold this posture, much like a

Heron Pose (Krounchasana) Interesting Fact: Heron Pose, or Krounchasana, is named after the heron bird, known for its long legs and graceful stance. This pose mimics the bird’s elegant posture, providing a deep stretch that enhances flexibility and strength. It is a challenging seated posture that combines elements of both Ardha Virasana (Half Hero Pose)

Hero Pose (Virasana) Interesting Fact: Hero Pose, or Virasana, is often used as a comfortable seated position for meditation and pranayama (breathing exercises). The name “Virasana” comes from the Sanskrit words “vira” (hero) and “asana” (pose), symbolizing the inner strength and courage that the pose cultivates. Benefits of Hero Pose Physical Benefits: Energetic Benefits: Contraindications

Supta Virasana (Reclining Hero Pose) Interesting Fact Supta Virasana, or Reclining Hero Pose, is a restorative yoga posture that has been used for centuries to promote deep relaxation and flexibility. It is particularly revered in traditional yoga practices for its ability to open the front body and improve digestion. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Supta

Head-to-Knee Pose (Janu Sirsasana) Interesting Fact: Head-to-Knee Pose, or Janu Sirsasana, is named for the way the head moves towards the knee in this forward bend. This pose is not just about flexibility; it also incorporates a gentle spinal twist, making it a comprehensive stretch for the entire body. It is often used in yoga

Happy Baby Pose (Ananda Balasana) Interesting Fact: Happy Baby Pose, or Ananda Balasana, is named for the joyful and carefree way babies often lie on their backs, holding their feet. This pose is a gentle and soothing stretch that mimics this playful position, promoting relaxation and a sense of childlike happiness. Benefits of Happy Baby

Handstand Pose (Adho Mukha Vrksasana) Interesting Fact: Handstand Pose, or Adho Mukha Vrksasana, translates to “Downward-Facing Tree Pose” in Sanskrit. This inversion is not only a physical challenge but also a mental one, requiring focus, strength, and balance. Practicing handstands can give you a new perspective, both literally and figuratively, as you see the world

Half Moon Pose (Ardha Chandrasana) Interesting Fact: Half Moon Pose, or Ardha Chandrasana, is named after the half-moon shape that the body forms in this pose. It is a powerful balancing pose that combines strength, flexibility, and concentration. This pose is unique in that it brings together the energies of the sun and the moon,

Half Lord of the Fishes Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana) Interesting Fact: Half Lord of the Fishes Pose, or Ardha Matsyendrasana, is named after the sage Matsyendra, who is said to have been one of the first teachers of Hatha Yoga. This pose is a deep, restorative twist that is both strengthening and rejuvenating, often practiced towards

Half Frog Pose (Ardha Bhekasana) Interesting Fact: Half Frog Pose, or Ardha Bhekasana, is a preparatory pose for deeper backbends like Full Frog Pose (Bhekasana) and Bow Pose (Dhanurasana). It is particularly beneficial for athletes and those who spend long hours sitting, as it helps to open the hips and stretch the front of the

Gate Pose (Parighasana) Interesting Fact: Gate Pose, or Parighasana, is named after the bar or beam used to close a gate. This pose mimics the shape of a gate latch, providing a unique lateral stretch that is often overlooked in many yoga practices. It is a wonderful way to open up the side body and

Garland Pose (Malasana) Interesting Fact: Garland Pose, or Malasana, is often referred to as the “yogic squat.” This pose is a natural resting position in many cultures, particularly in Asia, where people often squat while eating, working, or socializing. It is a fundamental pose that helps maintain flexibility and mobility in the hips and lower

Four-Limbed Staff Pose (Chaturanga Dandasana) Interesting Fact: Four-Limbed Staff Pose, or Chaturanga Dandasana, is a foundational pose in many yoga sequences, particularly in Vinyasa and Ashtanga practices. The name “Chaturanga” comes from the Sanskrit words “chatur” (four) and “anga” (limb), referring to the four points of contact with the ground: the hands and feet. This

Forearm Plank Pose (Phalakasana II) Interesting Fact: Forearm Plank Pose, also known as Dolphin Plank Pose, is a powerful core-strengthening exercise that is often used in both yoga and fitness routines. It is a variation of the traditional plank pose and is particularly beneficial for those looking to build upper body strength without putting too