Yoga

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 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 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.

Wait... Eka Pada WHAT!?  Eka Pada Adho Mukha Svanasana If they repeat it 3 times and you still don't get it just smile, nod and slowly back away 😂.  Derived from the Sanskrit 'Eka' meaning one 'Pada' meaning foot 'adho' meaning downward 'mukha' meaning face 'svana' meaning dog and 'asana' meaning pose . In short; 'One foot/legged downward facing dog'. It has 'dog' in the name simply because it derives from the way dogs naturally stretch their backs.  This pose is believed to open  the  muladhara  (root)     manipura  (wisdom) ajna  (third eye) chakras. Chakras are believed to be energy centres in the body The muladhara provides stability and grounding.   The manipura; confidence and self-motivation The ajna; inner knowledge and imagination. Teaching Tips: Begin in downward facing dog.  Practise spiralling the outer, upper arms towards the back of the mat and