Yoga

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) 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...