Yoga is taking the world by storm. Millions of people around the world practice this ancient discipline which is from India. There are many mental, physical and spiritual benefits that can be derived from yoga.
You may have seen people on TV doing certain yoga poses and you may not have any idea what these poses are or what they are called. Each pose has a purpose to either strengthen a muscle or gently massage your internal organs. There are several other reasons for each pose.
The 5 yoga poses below are some of the most popular poses and you should strive to be able to do them and hold the pose if necessary. As with all things, there is a learning curve with yoga too. It may take you time to get accustomed to the pose if you're new to yoga. Persist and you'll be able to do them in no time at all.
- The downward dog
Definitely one of the most popular and most often see poses. To do this pose, you will be on your knees in a baby crawl position. Your palms will be directly below your shoulders on the floor and your knees just below your hips. From this position, with your fingers wide open, you will move your palms a few inches forward and raise your knees so that your hips are lifted off the floor. You should be in an inverted V shaped position. Straighten knees but do not lock them. Your head should be between your arms. Do not let it hang.
- The mountain
This is a relatively easy pose. Stand straight and keep your feet close together. Keep your arms by your sides and your shoulders relaxed. Slowly raise your hands till they are above your head. Breathe deeply as you do this and both palms must face each other. Keep your arms raised as you try to reach for the sky. Breathe deeply and in a relaxed manner.
- The warrior pose
This is the pose that you see on the cover of most yoga books of DVDs. It's a stylish pose to look at and very beneficial for the body. To do this pose, you need to stand with your feet apart wider than your hips. Next, you turn your right leg 90 degrees and slowly lower yourself till your right knee is bent at 90 degrees. Extend both your arms by each side with the palms facing down. Hold this pose for a minute and breathe in a gentle manner. After that, change sides and repeat.
- The tree pose
Another common pose. You will stand straight with both your feet together. Slowly shift your weight to the left leg and raise your right sole and place it against your left thigh. Then raise both your arms above your head and place both palms together as if you are praying.
- The bridge
Lie flat on the floor. Keep your knees bent. Your hands must be by your sides and your back must be flat on the floor. Slowly raise your hips till the angle your knees form in almost 90 degrees. Your arms will press against the floor for stability and keep your thighs parallel to the floor. Keep your chin tucked to prevent injury to your neck.
These are some of the most common and beneficial poses that any beginner should aim to do. They will build your strength and balance. As you progress, you can learn the more difficult poses.