Ardha Matsydendrasana I Begin seated with legs extended. Bend left knee and place foot over the opposite leg. Bring opposite foot in toward buttocks. Cross right elbow to left knee and leverage back. Reverse. Benefits Stretches neck muscles. Tones the internal organs. Good for the spine and shoulders. Releases toxins. What it looks like A pretzel, a mixed–up professor, looking this way and that way.
Eka Pada Rajakapotasana prep Begin in table position. Bring one knee forward and extend back leg out, activate back leg. Extend up. Bow forward. Switch sides. Benefits Opens the hips. Stretches the legs. Opens the heart. What it looks like Someone crawling on the ground, a seal, a pigeon, ice skating.
Padmasana Seated, lift each foot and cross onto each thigh. Try both sides. Benefits Helps with relaxation and calms the mind. Opens the hips. What it looks like Lotus, any flower, a fairy, a meditating Genie.
Virasana and Supta Virasana Begin by kneeling. Bring legs and feet slightly out to the side of the leg, toes pointing straight back, then gently sit back as far as comfortable. Make ankles and toes active. Benefits Removes fatigue. Stretches quads and thighs. Relieves stomach problems. Calms the mind. Encourages deep Hero Pose breathing and a rested heart. Good for the knees. Opens the chest. What it looks like Somebody who is tired and wants to take a nap, a frog king, a smiling fish, a heart.
Paschimotanasana Sit on floor with legs extended. Activate legs and inner thighs. Bow forward and touch toes. Seated Forward Bend Seated Twist Benefits Tones the abdominal organs, kidneys and is good for the spine. Lengthens hamstrings. What it looks like A flower getting ready to bloom, a shy animal.
