Sometimes we don't get started or don't continue with a practice because we have expectations for ourselves that we're not meeting. Perhaps we think we should be more skilled than we are. The truth is, how you are now is the only place you can start from.
So, let's make yoga more accessible by going over 5 easy-to-do yoga poses. Some are more restorative and passive, others more active.
Keep in mind, everyBODY is different. So something that is easy for one person might not be easy for someone else.
To dive into this topic deeper, check it my article: 3 Supportive Tips For Yoga Beginners
1. Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
Start off standing with the feet at hips-width distance. Bring your arms by your side with the palms facing forward. Imagine reaching the top of your head towards the space above you as you lengthen your spine. Close your eyes and feel that you are balanced on your feet. From there, you might reach your arms up as your inhale and return your arms back by your sides as your exhale.
2. Vrksasana (Tree Pose)
From standing, step your feet together. Rotate your right foot (make sure to do the second side afterwards with your left) to the side so now those toes are pointed to your right. Connect your right heel to your ankle and bring your palms together in front of the chest or reach your arms above you. If that feels super stable, try sliding your foot up to your shin or thigh for more of a balance challenge. Find one non-moving point in front of you to focus your awareness and help you to balance.
3. Balasana (Child's Pose)
Sit down at the back of your mat on your shins and with the knees wide apart, at whatever width is comfortable for you. Bring your big toes to touch together and allow your hips to sit back towards your heels. Reach the arms forward and rest your forehead down onto the floor or a block/pillow. Let your muscles relax in this shape. If your arms are uncomfortable reaching forward, bring them back by your sides with your palms flipped up and allow your shoulders to relax down.
4. Supported Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Supported Bridge Pose)
Lie down on your back with a block or pillow nearby within arms reach. Bring your feet to the floor with your heels right under your knees. Press your feet down to lift your hips up and place the supporting prop you have on the floor underneath your sacrum (the flat bony part of the low back). Set your sacrum onto the prop and rest your arms by your sides or wherever is comfortable for you. This is a mild backbend and mild inversion. It tends to be grounding and soothing to the nervous system.
5. Savasana (Corpse Pose)
This is a completely restful posture. No effort required. Lie down on your back with your legs wider than hips-width apart or however is most comfortable to you. Your arms can either be rested by your sides or your hands can rest on your torso with your elbows relaxed down on the ground. Allow every muscle in your body to relax. Close the eyes. Let the breath move on it's own. To make it extra cozy, place a blanket over yourself as you're lying down. Give yourself time to rest here, usually somewhere between 3-10 minutes.
Ready to start your practice?