COBRA POSE Bhujangasana Begin lying flat on stomach, hands back by the base of the breastbone. Uncurl toes and press into floor. Bring energy to the legs. Inhale up, shoulders on the back. Hiss like a snake. Benefits Cobra Pose Good for strengthening the back and spine. Expands the chest. What it looks like A snake, a piece of rope, a walrus.
Tadasana Stand with feet fist–width apart. Weight evenly distributed through all four corners of the feet. Muscles of the ankles, calves, knees and thighs engaged and hugging the bones. Inner thighs are back, tailbone tucked. Shoulders are on the back, hands pointed down. Feel the energy from the earth and feet drawing up into the core and extending out through the hands and head and feet. Benefits Naturally aligns the entire body. Spinal alignment. Teaches proper standing. Develops concentration. Makes back strong. Relaxing. Lotus Pose Mountain Pose What it looks … Continue reading
CHILD’S POSE Balasana Chair Pose Have child spread knees and extend arms forward in front of them. Also may move arms to the sides. Benefits A good resting pose. Good for the lower back. What it looks like A ball, somebody praying, begging, sleeping.
Simhasana Reclining Hero Pose Start in child’s pose, balasana, with arms and hands extended. Then press forward and let face go wild. Squish it up. Roar like a lion! Lion Pose Benefits Good for the speech and stammers. Releases tension in the face, jaw and body. Revives expression. What it looks like A lion, an alien, monsters, giant squids, dragons, witches.
Matsyasana Sit on hands, preferably palms facing down. Legs are extended. Drop elbows down to floor and arch back. Slide back enough so that head will touch the floor. Benefits Good for the abdominal organs. What it looks like A fish, a sleeping mermaid.
Ustrasana Kneeling with toes curved under or flat on the floor, place hands on hips. Extend and lift the spine as you arch the back. Drop the hands back onto the heels, press the hips forward, tuck tailbone. Benefits Develops hamstrings and inner thighs. Calms the mind and removes fatigue. Removes stiffness in neck and shoulders. What it looks like Camel Pose A tunnel, a mountain, going down a well to fetch water, any pose when a heart–opening realization occurs.
