How To Understand Yoga Poses And Their Purpose
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Written by: taren.liffick.yogapostures
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Date: Sun, 14 Feb 2010 |
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The practice of yoga is characterized by various asanas, which are also referred to as yoga poses or positions. These are aimed at promoting health and offer various benefits to participants. All of the various schools have become increasingly popular throughout the United States and across the world.
A discipline of exercises that incorporates mental and physical concentration, yoga incorporates aspects of various religions including Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism concepts. It utilizes concepts of finding one's center, releasing negativity and focusing on breathing techniques and calmness.
This exercise discipline involves physical movements and the ability to control those movements, breathing and thinking. This form of exercise uses asanas, or poses, to reach various goals of improving health and mental stability. The word, 'yoga" originated as a Sanksrit word that means 'control, ' which explains the ideas of control throughout the exercises.
There are thousands and thousands of poses within the discipline, which can range in difficulty. They all involve control of one's movement, muscles, breathing and thoughts and serves to provide a certain benefit. Here are several poses that could be incorporated into a class or sequence:
First, Downward Facing Dog, is one of the simplest and most common poses. This is oftentimes the first pose taught to new students and is conducted in a standing position. Both palms and feet remain flat on the floor while hips are pushed away from the floor. Also known simply as Downward Dog, this is typically performed many times during the course of a single yoga class.
Child's Pose is another commonly used stance. It is utilized by beginners and advanced practitioners alike. This is the position typically used as a form of rest during the class as it allows students to catch their breath and become centered again. It involves transitioning from Downward Facing Dog and dropping knees and forehead on the floor. There the entire body is relaxed, allowing for a mild stretch of the thighs, hips and ankles.
A seated position that is frequently used is called the Staff Pose. This is position is one that is the basis of many other seated poses. The Staff involves sitting with legs extended. From there, the feet are flexed, bringing toes towards the body, and it is used to gain strength in the legs and more easily align the body in general.
The Cobra Pose is done while lying on your stomach. Legs are flat and hands are used to push the upper body away from the floor. This is helpful for those suffering from back pain and increases overall flexibility. Cobra is typically used as part of the larger sequence of poses called the Sun Salutation.
Finally, the Tree Pose is a more difficult stance as it involves, and aims at improving, balance and leg strength. Hands are held together while balancing on one foot and bringing the other closer to your body. The Tree Pose is supposed to be done on each leg separately, while focusing on breathing and stillness.
The practice of yoga is characterized by various asanas, which are also referred to as yoga poses or positions. These are aimed at promoting health and offer various benefits to participants.
About the Author
Amanda Lee recommends you to visit this A directory of yoga pose articles at http://www.yoga-posture.com
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