Safe Yoga Asanas with Correct Alignment
Explore step-by-step breakdowns of individual asanas, focusing on proper alignment and therapeutic benefits to keep your practice safe and effective.
Adho Mukha Virasana (Downward-Facing Hero Pose). This is a more challenging variation of Virasana that provides a deep stretch for the thighs and ankles. I show you how to move from Vajrasana into this forward-bending pose.
Urdhva Mukha Pasasana (Thread the Needle Pose). This pose is excellent for releasing tension and stiffness in the shoulders, neck, and upper spine. I guide you through the correct alignment to get a deep, restorative twist.
Supta Padangusthasana (Reclining Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose). This pose improves blood circulation in the legs and hips while providing a deep hamstring stretch. I show you how to practice it safely, even if you are a beginner with tight hamstrings.
Prasarita Padottanasana (Wide-Legged Forward Fold). A great pose for stretching the back and hamstrings. I provide a modification for those with back pain and guide you on how to fold from the hips to protect your spine.
Parivrtta Utkatasana (Revolved Chair Pose). This pose strengthens the mid and lower back while toning the thighs and hips. I explain how to maintain knee alignment while twisting to get the full benefit of the pose.
Garudasana (Eagle Pose) for Balance and Flexibility. This balancing pose helps improve lower body flexibility and tones the thighs. I share a simple tip, thinking of it like Utkatasana (Chair Pose), to help you achieve the leg and arm wrap.
Ardha Kati Chakrasana (Half Wheel Pose). This beginner-friendly standing side-bend gives a wonderful stretch to the side of your body. It also stimulates internal organs like the kidneys, liver, and lungs.
Matsyasana (Fish Pose) for Neck and Shoulder Release. This pose is a great counter-posture for Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand). It helps to relax the shoulders, neck, and upper back by creating a gentle arch and opening the chest.
Pinchamayurasana (Dolphin Pose) for Hamstring Flexibility. This pose is an amazing stretch for the hamstrings and a great preparation for forearm stand. I show you how to walk your feet in to deepen the stretch safely.
Simhasana (Lion Pose) for Facial Tension Release. This unique asana helps to release tension in the face and jaw and is known to strengthen the vocal cords. I explain the facial expression and breathwork involved.
About Additional Poses & Stretches
Alignment is the key to reaping the benefits of any asana without injury. When you look at these poses, notice that I emphasize keeping your spine straight and listening to your body, rather than forcing a stretch. Whether we are practicing a deep forward bend or a simple side stretch, my approach is to ensure you know the contraindications, so you only perform the movements that suit your current health and flexibility.
Many beginners make the mistake of pushing into a pose before their body is ready. This often leads to stiffness or worse, injuries. Here, you will find a library of asanas like Parivrtta Utkatasana (Revolved Chair Pose) and Matsyasana (Fish Pose), where the focus is entirely on your structural safety. I break down each movement, explaining not just how to get into the posture, but how to breathe through it.
Most of my sessions include cues in both English and Kannada to make sure the instructions are clear and easy to follow. For instance, you will often hear me say, nimma bennannu straight aagi itkolli (keep your back straight). When you practice these, remember to prioritize the quality of your alignment over the depth of your pose. If you are struggling with specific issues like back pain or shoulder stiffness, look for the contraindications I have listed for every pose. This helps you understand which variations are right for your body and which you should skip. Whether you are building your home practice or looking to improve your flexibility, these breakdowns are designed to give you a solid, injury-free foundation.
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