Yoga poses and alternate uses

Yoga begins and ends with the breath. Using your mind to control your breathing, you're able to facilitate your body's own healing and well being. However, yoga asanas (poses) are used to help train the body, as well as the mind. The asanas have been shown to improve health, strength and flexibility. But, that's just where the journey begins: you never know where the poses will take you.

The Lotus Pose: Lotus is defined as "the crossing of the legs while maintaining a straight back, making it ideal for meditation and concentration." Lotus is also useful when you have a strong desire to move into "Method Acting" and choose to become a pretzel. You can use positive imagary...just picturing sea salt being sprinkled over you, and being dunked into cheese dip. Not only will you be able to meditate, but you can also become a tasty snack !

Warrior Pose: "Place your right foot forward between the palms and pivot the left heel to the sand to slight angle. Bend the right knee into a lunge and lift upright through the torso. It specifically helps to alleviate pain associated with rheumatic conditions." Warrior pose is terrific for creating a sense of empowerment and strength. It's also exceptionally useful when standing in a very long line. You move into warrior, and just watch the people in front of you move out of the way !


The Seated Twist: "Gentle twist on dorsal and lumbar region makes spine more supple." Wonderful pose to reset your spine....and to spy on those irritating people behind you that insist on talking all the way through every movie. Casting nasty looks is a possible variation, but do be wary of the bad karma that this may bring. So, give an exasperated, dramatic sigh while thinking inner thoughts of peace.





Reclining head to knee: "Lying in a supine position, inhale one staight leg into your chest. Reach up and grab your ankle or foot. This asana has a beautiful rhythm and movement of opening and closing the body." This fabulous stretch is convenient to do when you are lying on the floor watching television. You can simply stay still, but when someone else enters the room, move into "reclining head to knee" and breathe deeply. It will appear as though you are working extremely hard. If these intruders linger, switch to the other leg. This asana is also helpful in creating leaner and longer legs. At least I hope so. It couldn't hurt.



Headstand: "Supported Headstand is said to be the "king" of all asanas. As with all inversions it reverses the flow of "prana" (life force) which can lead to self-realization. Held in proper alignment can help the organs move back into their proper placement." Seriously ? Not to be attempted by klutzes, without the strictest of supervision. Or, large insurance policies.