If you're looking for a unique way to increase flexibility in your spine, then you'll want to try Locust. The full pose is rather Cirque du Soleil-ish, with both feet extended in the air. It's extremely challenging since it requires both flexibility in the back and upper body strength, so let's ease into Locust with a relaxing prep pose.
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When you're suffering from a dull tension headache, try these yoga poses before reaching for medication. They're a series of forward bends and reclining poses that will soothe your head and release tension from your neck. They'll also improve circulation, slow down your breath, and calm your mind.
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If you had a fun time practicing the arm-balancing pose Side Crow, then you're going to love this next pose called Straight Legs Crow. It's a little bit more challenging since it requires strength, balance, and flexibility, but once you nail it, you'll feel amazing.
Sanskrit Name: Koundinyasana A or Dwi Pada Koundinyasana
English Translation: Two-Legged Sage Pose
Also Called: Straight Legs Side Crow
To learn how to get into this acrobatic-looking pose .
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One of the reasons I'm a huge fan of Ashtanga Yoga is the many variations of headstand involved in the practice — seven to be exact. Palms Up Headstand is the sixth in the Ashtanga headstand series. I'm not going to lie to you; this one is pretty tough.
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If you've been working on mastering the arm-balancing pose Crow, then how about giving this variation, called Side Crow, a try? It may look more difficult, but some people think it's actually easier. It will strengthen your shoulders and abs, and since you're twisting to the side, it'll also increase flexibility in your lower back.
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Yoga is full of variety. One pose can offer many variations — even something as simple as standing on your head. I have introduced you all to the four variations of headstand found in Ashtanga Yoga.
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So we're finally up to the fourth headstand in Ashtanga Yoga. The first one is Bound Headstand, followed by Double Arm Headstand, and the third is Forearm Headstand.
Sanskrit Name: Baddha Hasta Sirsasana D
English Translation: Bound Hands Headstand Posture D
Also Called: Pinching Shoulders Headstand
To find out how to get into this pose .
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Of all the balancing poses, headstands might just be my favorite. They're challenging and work the upper body as well as the abs, but I also love that there are so many variations of the pose. In Ashtanga Yoga, there are actually seven different headstands.
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If you want to strengthen your quads and challenge your sense of balance give this sequence a try.
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I think we're all ready to kick it up a notch and try this gorgeous arm balancing yoga pose. I know it looks intense and very advanced, but as with most yoga poses, with a few tricks and some practice, you'll have this pose down in no time. I've never seen this taught in a traditional yoga class, but actually saw it on this old Russian yoga competition video.
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