Yoga Positions

The key to yoga is practice. Like any challenging discipline, you will need to practice your yoga positions frequently--as much as once a day if possible. In the beginning, you will find many of the positions difficult. Do not overexert yourself. Take the time to concentrate on proper form and stretch just a little bit farther each time. Gradually, you will notice that the positions become easier as you become more flexible.

The following positions will also be made easier if you use Yoga-Paws during your workout. Yoga-Syz's Yoga-Paws eliminate the need for a large yoga mat so that you can take them with you when you travel. That way, there's no need to disrupt your routine and the progress you've made. Always begin with warm-up poses. Good warm-up poses stretch the neck, shoulders, and face. Bidalasana, or the Cat, is an excellent warm up pose because it focuses on movement from your core and synchronizes breathing.

Alternating standing and seated positions stretches muscles from many of the major groups. The Triangle position provides an invigorating stretch all the way from your foot, up the leg, through your sides, shoulders, back, and arms. The Seated Forward Bend is another great position that is actually much more challenging than it appears. Try all the standing and seated positions you want, but again, do not overexert yourself. Yoga should be peaceful, not painful!

Because many of us spend hour after hour every day sitting at a desk or in other unnatural positions, backbends become extremely important. They help us relieve tension that is carried in the spine and promote energy flow through the body. Don't forget, though, to balance out backbends with counter stretches like the Child's Pose. Relaxation poses are just as important as any other. One final note--while holding all poses, it is absolutely critical that you continue the smooth, rhythmic breathing that is the heart of yoga.