Yoga Practice Tips

Surya namaskara (sun salutation) practice is awesome! I love linking breathing and movement in each transition. Stepping back to high plank > chaturanga > upward facing dog is strengthening and lengthening when done mindfully.

Some tips for healthy alignment:

HIGH PLANK.
Pull navel to spine, low belly engaged (no backbending shape). Key action—shift onto your tiptoes and look forward, then lower into chaturanga.

CHATURANGA.
Shoulders and elbows in one line. Too challenging? No problem. Rest your body on the mat and keep that healthy shoulder position. Chest reaches forward, shoulders reach back (lengthening, aha!). Key point—shoulders lower than elbows can cause issues over time, so keep 'em high! And, look forward to help chest lengthen, not collapse.

UPWARD FACING DOG.
Press into your hands and lift your chest forward and upward. Reach back through your pointed toes. Too challenging? No problem. Rest your body on the mat and reach chest forward and upward a tiny bit. Key point—shoulders move away from ears so your chest and neck lengthen.

The linking of breathing and movement cannot be overemphasized in the practice of yoga. This is the key to calming the nervous system and the many health benefits for body and mind. Enjoy your practice! :)

Want some personalized yoga tips for your practice? Join a class or book a private lesson! Both offered in the St. Paul, MN area, and online.