3 Simple Yoga Techniques

Yoga can be a great step towards becoming healthier. With a little bit of practice and consistency Yoga can increase flexibility, health, strength muscles, aid in concentration and even aid in stress management. However, some people aren’t naturally flexible and can have a hard time getting into some of those complicated positions; so below are a few simple yoga techniques that will help you segue into a healthier lifestyle.

1. Mountain Pose

The mountain pose is one of the simplest Yoga poses and that makes it a perfect start.

This pose requires you to stand up straight while keeping your feet together. Close your eyes and let your arms lay naturally at your sides but keep your fingers together. If keeping your feet together is too much of a strain then try separating them slightly. Another way to accomplish the mountain pose is to raise your arms above your head with your palms facing each other.

If for some reason the Mountain Pose is too difficult a common variation of this technique is to simply lay down with your feet against a vertical surface.

Remain in this pose for at least 5 calm breaths and only remain in the pose as long as it is comfortable.

2. Cobra Pose

The Cobra Pose is another easy one to accomplish although for those of a stiffer nature or who may face working through an injury, this one could take some practice.

To get into the Cobra pose lay with your face down on the floor. Your thumbs will go under your shoulders and keep your feet extended out so that the tops of them are touching the floor. Slowly raise yourself off of the floor, keep your elbows by your sides. There will be pressure in your lower back as you push your hips down, this is a good pressure. Remain in this position for several breaths before relaxing and repeating the process of lifting yourself up.

This pose is slightly more difficult and should only be done as long as it is comfortable, while only allowing yourself to stay in it while it is slightly uncomfortable (as it may be to begin with) but do not allow pain to ensue.

3. Standing Half Forward Bend

This last pose is slightly more difficult than the Cobra Pose and will definitely take a bit more practice, especially to get better at it.

To get into this pose simply go from a standing upright position to reaching towards the floor. As you reach towards the floor keep your legs straight and slide your hands down the front of your legs. This technique will help you stretch the muscles in your legs and will not be easy at first. Go down until you feel the stretch and remain there for a few breaths before slowly bringing yourself back to a standing position. Then repeat.

Never bend down too fast, doing so could cause damage to various muscles or tendons in the legs or back. If you want to string together your techniques, you can go from Mountain Pose into the Standing Half Forward Bend then back to Mountain Pose.

Continue to practice these poses and you’re on your way to a healthier life.