Thread The Needle

Thread the Needle Pose is an asymmetrical pose that stretches your shoulders and upper back. This pose is also useful for stretching your neck and arms. You may find performing this pose gives you a feeling of contentment when you are upset or distressed.

This pose is called Thread the Needle Pose because you thread one arm under the other. By threading one arm under your other arm and resting your shoulder and ear on the floor, this pose provides a gentle twist to your spine.

You can practice Thread the Needle Pose to prepare for performing inverted poses, such as Shoulderstand and Plow Pose.

If you feel pressure on your knees in this pose, you can place a folded towel or blanket under your knees to make the pose more comfortable. Make sure you use caution performing this pose if you have problems with your neck, shoulders or knees.


-- Namaste Alyssa
Twitter.com/sunkissedyoga

Half Moon Pose

(ardha chandrasana)

Half Moon Pose is an advanced standing balancing pose that stretches your body in several directions at once – out through your legs, the crown of your head and your arms. This pose can strengthen your legs and buttocks, as well as increase the flexibility of your legs and hips. Regular practice of Half Moon Pose can also improve your balance and coordination.

To help maintain your balance in this pose, rest your weight on your supporting foot as you press it into the floor and extend your raised leg away from you with each exhalation. Concentrating on breathing evenly can also help you maintain your balance.

It is important to align your body correctly in this pose. As you perform the pose, keep your spine in a straight line and your head, shoulders and hips on the same plane.

If you feel any tension in your neck, do not turn your head up to look at your raised hand. Avoid Half Moon Pose if you are tired or have high blood pressure.


-- Namaste Alyssa
Twitter.com/sunkissedyoga

Trikonasana

(trikonasana)

Triangle Pose provides an intense stretch along the sides of your torso, hips and legs. With regular practice of this pose, you can increase the strength and flexibility of your hips, legs, ankles and feet. This pose also elongates your spine and opens your chest, which can help improve your breathing.

It is important to be aware of the alignment of your body in Triangle Pose. Make sure your head, shoulders and hips are on the same plane. You must also keep your spine in a straight line from your head down to your tailbone. Practicing the pose with your back against a wall can help you find the proper alignment.

As you rest your weight on your back heel in this pose, you should feel stable and grounded through both of your feet. You should also feel comfortable in the pose, with your neck relaxed, your knees soft and your legs stretched, but not strained.

Use caution performing Triangle Pose if you have lower back problems.


-- Namaste Alyssa
Twitter.com/sunkissedyoga