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Eka Pada Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (One Leg Bridge Pose)

Eka Pada Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (One Leg Bridge Pose) Derived from the Sanskrit 'Eka' meaning one , 'Pada' meaning foot , 'Setu' meaning bridge , 'Bandha' meaning lock 'Sarva' meaning all , 'anga' meaning limbs and 'asana' meaning pose . This pose strengthens the hamstrings and gluteal muscles and opens the chest and shoulders. This pose is believed to open the V ishuddha (Throat Chakra) and the A nahata (Heart Chakra). Chakras are believed to be energy centres in the body. The Vishuddha (Throat Chakra) is associated with self-expression, listening skills, psychic ability and creativity. The Anahata (Heart Chakra) is associated with love, compassion, forgiveness, spirituality, harmony, trust and positivity. This pose is calming and relieves anxiety. Teaching Tips: Begin in a basic Bridge pose position. Feet are hip width apart and outer edges of the feet are paral

Bakasana (Crow Pose)

Bakasana (Crow Pose) Derived from the Sanskrit 'Baka' meaning crane/crow and 'Asana' meaning pose . Crow Pose strengthens the shoulders, arms and core muscles. It improves balance, focus and concentration. This pose is believed to open the Maladhara (Root Chakra) which is believed to provide stability, grounding, support, safety, security and is associated with survival. Teaching Tips: Begin in 'Malasana' Yogic Squat position. Feet are a little wider than hip width apart and make sure the knees point over the toes. Practise pressing the inner knees towards the outer arms and the outer arms towards the inner knees so that you can feel the opposition. Try to lift the chest here and lengthen through the spine. Draw the shoulder blades back and down. This is a hip opening pose. You don't have to squat all the way down, you may squat only some of the way. Now bring the hands to the ground and align elbows over the wrist

Parivrtta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle Pose)

Parivrtta Trikonasana ( Revolved Triangle Pose) Parivrtta Trikonasana derives from the Sanskrit 'Parivrtta' meaning revolve , 'Trikona' meaning triangle and 'asana' meaning pose . This pose strengthens the inner thighs and stretches the hamstring muscles. It opens the chest and activates the deep core muscles improving balance and focus. This pose is believed to open the Svadhisthana (The S acral Chakra) which is believed to improve creativity, passion, pleasure, the expression of sexuality and a sense of joy. Teaching Tips: Step the feet apart and align the heel of the left foot with the heel of the back foot. Point your back toes towards the top right corner of the mat. Bring the left hand to the lower back and draw the shoulder blade back and down. Reach your right arm over head and begin to lean forwards with a lengthened spine. Place your hand wherever it falls; this may be on the shin, ankle or the ground (or yo

Paripurna Navasana (Boat Pose)

Paripurna Navasana (Boat Pose) Paripurna Navasana derives from the Sanskrit 'Paripurna' meaning complete ,'Nava' meaning boat and 'asana' meaning pose . This pose strengthens the core muscles and hip flexors and is believed to open the Manipura (The solar plexus chakra). This chakra is believed to improve self-control, self-confidence, emotional balance, and contentment. The aim is to keep the spine lengthened, gaze forwards and a steady breath as you maintain your balance. Teaching Tips: Begin seated with the knees bent and lengthen through your spine. Taking hold of the outside edge of one foot begin to press your foot towards your hand aiming to straighten the leg. If your lower back begins to round then ease off a little and practise with bent knees instead. Make sure to keep drawing your shoulder blades back and down. If possible take both ankles and try to lengthen both legs and trying to lift the chest and draw

Tittibhasana (Firefly)

Tittibhasana (FIREFLY POSE) Derived from the Sanskrit 'Tittibha' meaning insect and 'Asana' meaning pose. The aim is so get both the arms and the legs straight... but I've only tried this pose a few times, so a little way to go yet. This pose although it may not look it is calming. It improves balance, core strength and focus. This pose is believed to open the Manipura (The solar plexus chakra) This chakra is believed to improve self-control, self-confidence, emotional balance, and contentment. Teaching Tips: Begin in a squat position. Feet a little wider than hip width. Fold your torso between the legs and commence in bringing your shoulders behind your thighs as best you can. Now place your hands at the outer edges of the feet and to the floor. Activate the muscles of your arms, shoulders and core by beginning to press into your hands and lift your feet off the floor. Now try to straighten the legs and arms.