Yoga Guide
Getting started
Begin with a comfortable space, a non-slip mat, and loose, breathable clothing. Focus on a calm breathing pattern and slow movements to connect body and breath. Hydrate after practice and allow time for gentle stretching at the end.
Classic poses to know
- Mountain Pose (Tadasana): Stand tall with feet together, distribute weight evenly, lengthen your spine, and soften the shoulders.
- Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): Hands and feet on the mat, hips lifted, heels aiming toward the floor. Stretch through the spine and hamstrings.
- Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): Front knee bent, back leg straight, hips square to the front, arms overhead to open the chest.
- Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II): Front knee bent, back leg grounded, arms extended parallel to the floor, gaze over the front hand.
- Tree Pose (Vriksasana): Shift weight to one leg, place the sole of the other foot near the ankle or thigh, hands at prayer position or overhead.
- Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana): Sit with legs extended, hinge at the hips, fold forward to lengthen the spine and hamstrings.
- Corpse Pose (Savasana): Lie flat, allow the body to relax completely, focus on steady breathing.
Breath work (pranayama)
- Ujjayi: Slight constriction at the back of the throat to create a gentle ocean-like sound, equalize inhalations and exhalations.
- Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril): Close one nostril, inhale, switch sides, exhale; repeat to balance the nervous system.
Safety and technique tips
- Listen to your body; avoid forcing deep bends.
- Warm up before sequences and cool down afterward.
- Maintain alignment to protect the joints; use blocks or straps if needed.
- If you experience pain, ease out of the pose and consult a professional if necessary.
20-minute beginner sequence
- Mountain Pose: 1 minute
- Cat-Cow flow: 1 minute
- Downward-Facing Dog: 2 minutes
- Warrior II to Side Angle: 3 minutes (1 minute each side)
- Tree Pose: 2 minutes (1 minute each side)
- Seated Forward Bend: 2 minutes
- Corpse Pose: 5 minutes
Quick tips for consistency
- Practice at the same time each day to build a routine.
- Pair breathing with movement to deepen awareness.
- Keep a short journal of poses that felt good and any adjustments needed.
- Gradually increase hold times rather than rushing into deeper postures.