Let's be honest, when someone thinks of yoga they visualize the postures they see on the cover of a magazine. When a new student enters a Yoga class for the first time, he or she may have a little anxiety about the ability to perform a posture with proper alignment. That said, let's look at the benefits of yoga posturing.
Every pose (asana) in yoga has specific meaning and brings different benefits to the body. In some cases, the pose looks simple but the benefits are extensive. Poses can be quite powerful when performed correctly. According to some yoga experts, performing an asana means striking a balance between movement and stillness and each pose epitomizes a mental attitude. Let's examine three basic asanas and their value to the practitioner.
A personal favorite, Ananda Balasana or happy baby pose, is performed on the back, gripping the inside, outside or big toe of the foot with each corresponding hand. This posture can dramatically reduce lower back pain and discomfort. The hips, buttocks, inner thigh and back are all stretched during this asana. Props, such as a folded blanket, may be used to support the neck if there are neck or knee problems. Ananda Balasana is contraindicated for pregnancy, so students should be advised.
Every pose (asana) in yoga has specific meaning and brings different benefits to the body. In some cases, the pose looks simple but the benefits are extensive. Poses can be quite powerful when performed correctly. According to some yoga experts, performing an asana means striking a balance between movement and stillness and each pose epitomizes a mental attitude. Let's examine three basic asanas and their value to the practitioner.
A personal favorite, Ananda Balasana or happy baby pose, is performed on the back, gripping the inside, outside or big toe of the foot with each corresponding hand. This posture can dramatically reduce lower back pain and discomfort. The hips, buttocks, inner thigh and back are all stretched during this asana. Props, such as a folded blanket, may be used to support the neck if there are neck or knee problems. Ananda Balasana is contraindicated for pregnancy, so students should be advised.