Crow (or crane) pose, known as bakasana in Sanskrit, is a simple arm balance that builds strength in the shoulders, arms, wrists, and hands. The pose also improves balance and concentration, preparing the body and mind for more intense arm balances.

Everyone, from the seasoned yogi to the brand new beginner, has compared themselves to others in class. Going green at someone else’s perfect chakrasana may motivate you at first, but competing with others will leave you discouraged and distracted in the long run.

Traditionally, yoga class begins and ends with a group chant of “om.” This means you have two chances to get loud every time you step on your mat. Use them! Beginners are often hesitant to chant because, well, it’s weird. The benefits of om, however, are real enough to be weird for.

Whether you exercise regularly or not, staying flexible is essential to your body’s well being. Stretching prevents muscle injuries, relieves back pain, improves athletic performance, and decreases mental stress. It keeps your muscles supple as you get older and, if you’re playing sports or training regularly, it protects your body against the stresses of performance.

Wheel pose, known as urdhva dhanurasana in Sanskrit, is an intense backbending posture that strengthens the erector spinae, improving the flexibility, strength, and alignment of the spine for better posture and reduced back pain. The pose also engages the legs and arms for powerful, toned limbs. Because wheel pose engages the pelvic floor, it can […]

Head-to-knee forward bend, known as janu sirsasana in Sanskrit, is a seated forward fold that stretches the muscles of the calves, hamstrings, hips, and back. The pose involves an external rotation of one leg and a forward bend over the other for a pose that focuses the benefits of seated forward fold (paschimottanasana) on one leg at […]

Flexibility and strength improve the longer we do yoga; however, balance is often more fickle. One practice you have it, the next you’re inexplicably timbering out of every vrkasana (tree pose) you attempt.