Beginning Yoga Poses

Warrior 1

Virabhadrasana I (Sanskrit)

Warrior 2

Virabhadrasana II (Sanskrit)

These are two of the three Warrior poses. Some of the attributes of all three Warrior poses help to align and strengthen feet, ankles, knees, hips and spine. They also improve health of the heart and will burn calories by working the large muscles in the legs.

Upward-Facing Dog

Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Sanskrit)

Often shortened to ‘Up Dog’ this pose lengthens the spine while expanding the chest. Arms and hands are strengthened as well as spine and gluteus muscles. Up dog is often paired with Downward-Facing Dog pose.

Downward-Facing Dog

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Sanskrit)

One of the most widely recognized yoga poses, Downward-Facing Dog is an all-over, rejuvenating stretch.

Triangle Pose

Utthita Trikonasana (Sanskrit)

This pose is the quintessential standing pose in many styles of yoga. As long as participant has no major hip injuries, this pose is excellent to lengthen and strengthen major muscles in legs, arms, shoulders and torso. Over time Triangle Pose assists to correctly align all major joints.

Revolved Triangle Pose

Parivrtta Trikonasana (Sanskrit)

Similar benefits to Triangle pose, this option stimulates the internal organs by a gentle ‘squeeze’ and compression to the torso. With eyes looking upward to top hand the yoga student can gain even more challenge and possible effort in this pose. While open the chest to improve breathing the spine is receiving a very helpful range of motion and for some can relieve mild back pain!

Tree Pose

Vrkasana (Sanskrit)

This is one of many balancing poses practiced in yoga and can easily show how challenging it can be to stand on one leg. While this is not a physically demanding pose, fine tuning balance and stability can be a challenge.

Childs Pose

Balasana (Sanskrit)

Balasana is a restful pose that can be sequenced between more challenging asanas

Bridge Pose

Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Sanskrit)

This pose is very therapeutic and rejuvenating and supportive to the immune system. Bridge is a gentle inversion that calms the brain and strengthens the spine. This pose is a great option to any daily practice.