August 2023 – Asana (Pose) Styles: Iyengar Series

Happy August 31, 2023 – Asana Styles: Iyengar Series

purple yogi girl trikonasana triangle pose yoga
Trikonasana – Triangle Pose

Good morning Yogis! We are continuing our exploration of various styles of Asana or poses. Today we are moving on to a slightly more difficult style.

Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar is somewhat between Hatha and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. The creators of Iyengar and Ashtanga Vinyasa trained under the same Yoga Master, so it is no surprise there are some similarities! Iyengar, like Ashtanga, is typically a regimented series progression of Asanas (poses), with Sun Salutations in the series. However, Ashtanga is a flow style, while Iyengar instructors usually focus on proper alignment, and often hold the poses for a longer time. Iyengar also often uses props to aid with proper alignment. Because of this approach to Asanas, Iyengar classes are typically a good fit for beginners or Yogis with injuries. I really enjoy learning proper alignment with Iyengar, and trying to bring these “corrective focuses” into flow classes.

Have you used props before? If not, I strongly recommend trying today with an Iyengar series! I typically use blocks and a strap to help get proper alignment in some poses impacted by my tight hamstrings. We will talk more about different props another time, but these two are probably the most helpful to Yogis at all levels!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is an Iyengar series. We have recommendations for Iyengar series both with and without props. I have demonstrated this series without props, but I am fairly flexible.. props are strongly recommended for this style to properly perform each Asana!

Beginner Iyengar Series with Props

Iyengar Series with and without Props

Check out a sped up version of the second video above, to get a quick idea of what this style is like! You will notice beginner poses held for a longer period of time, with an emphasis on alignment using props or modifications if needed.

Trikonasana - triangle pose - yoga pose yoga girl wearing pink and black lace set doing yoga inside in cool pink and purple yoga studio
Trikonasana – Triangle Pose

Like this Yoga set? Click here for product links and discount codes!

Want to check out more types of Yoga? Check out our Asana Styles Guide!

Check out our Top 5 Yoga Mats and Equipment for Newbies!

You may want to start with a block if you are a beginner and do not have any props.. they are helpful for proper alignment and support when holding poses for a longer period of time.

Top 5 Yoga Equipment for Newbies

Top 5 Yoga Mats


Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

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August 2023 – Asana (Pose) Styles: Kids and Family Yoga

Happy August 30, 2023 – Asana Styles: Kids and Family Yoga

purple yogi girl vrksasana tree pose yoga
Vrksasana – Tree Pose

Good morning Yogis! We are continuing covering the various Asana styles. I have covered these in the past, and for the next week will revisit or introduce some of the various Styles of Yoga. Hopefully you will find one or a few favorite Asana styles to integrate into your daily practice, and be more informed to select between class offerings at a Yoga studio. Today we will cover Kids and Family Yoga and try a Family Yoga Series.

Kids and Family Yoga

Many Kids’ Yoga classes use traditional Yoga Asanas (poses) with fun animal names and animal sounds. Most family and kids classes are more exciting versions of Hatha Yoga Style from yesterday. This is a great trick for busy parents – get some Yoga in your day, even if it is hard to find alone time in your day! Unfortunately, the animal noises and trippy cartoons in Family or Kids’ Yoga may not be as relaxing and meditative as you are used to, and most classes for kids cannot flow, but I personally find the physical benefits of Asanas practice equally if not more beneficial than the mental benefits. You will also get a laugh.. it is hard not to smile at silly stories, animal noises, and the other fun things in kids yoga. The nontraditional approach may be a bit more challenging for experienced Yogis than an intro Hatha class.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try a family Yoga series and connect with your inner child!

Recommended Videos

Cosmic Kids Yoga – check out the Disney-themed Yoga Adventures!

Yoga with Infants

Yoga with Toddlers

Check out a sped-up version of a Cosmic Kids video above (I tried Minecraft Adventure), to get a quick idea of what this style is like! You will notice beginner poses held for a longer period of time, silly names for poses, and fun motions for kids… I could not stop giggling during the Zombie section, but my dogs got a bit upset!

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Want to check out more types of Yoga? Check out our Asana Styles Guide!

Vrksasana - tree pose beginner variation - yoga pose yoga girl wearing pink and green sparkle set doing yoga inside in cool pink and green yoga studio
Vrksasana – Tree Pose

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August 2023 – Asana (Pose) Styles: Hatha Series

Happy August 29, 2023 – Asana Styles: Hatha Series

purple yogi girl uttkatasana chair pose yoga
Utkatasana – Chair or Powerful Pose

Good morning Yogis! We have talked quite a bit about working various techniques into your Asana practice and discussed Surya Namads of Asana styles. I have covered these in the past, so for the next week we will take a brief detour and revisit or introduce some of the variance Styles of Yoga. Hopefully you will find one or a few favorite Asana styles to integrate into your daily practice, and be more informed to select between class offerings at a Yoga studio. Today we will cover Hatha Yoga and try a Hatha Yoga Series.

Branches vs Limbs of Yoga

We have talked about the 8 Limbs of Yoga, a number of practices that build upon each other. We will now be focusing on the Third Limb – Asanas or Poses, covering quite a few Asana styles. There are also 6 Branches of Yoga, which come to us from the Bhagavad Gita.

I consider different Branches of Yoga to be different Paths of Yoga. In my understanding, different Branches of Yoga give different weights and priorities to particular practices from the 8 Limbs of Yoga. For example, I believe Ghandi’s Karma Yoga emphasizes the practice of certain Yamas – particularly Ahimsa, Satya, and Aparigraha.

My particular approach with Daily Yogi focusing on practicing all 8 Limbs of Yoga, is quite similar to the Raja (also called Ashtanga) Branch of Yoga. However Raja Yoga places much more emphasis and focus on the Upper Limbs and Meditation, and we are taking a more practical approach with more focus on the Lower Limbs for our daily practices. Remember, I discuss that my personal practice usually includes daily Asanas and Meditation, so please consider adding daily personal practice focuses or intentions each month with me if you would like a more traditional Raja Yoga approach!

Hatha Yoga

We will start with Hatha Yoga, which is both an Asana style and a Branch of Yoga. The Hatha Branch of Yoga actually covers all styles of Asana (from fast-paced Vinyasa to calming Restorative), since Hatha Yoga is the Branch that focuses on Asanas or poses and movement.

Hatha can be translated to English as either “Sun and Moon” (implying balance) or “Forceful”. Even though all Asana Styles and Asana Practices are technically Hatha Yoga, you can typically expect a Hatha class at a Yoga studio to be a more slow paced class than a Vinyasa class, and to have more detailed instructions. Often Hatha classes at studios are the beginner / intro Yoga classes.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is a beginner Hatha Asana series. I am a huge fan of Rodney Yee. I practice at home with videos or apps far more than I do at Yoga Studios. The first Asana Yoga practice I ever tried was in college, with my roommate and a Rodney Yee DVD. So, I feel it is appropriate to start with a couple video options from Rodney Yee‘s Hatha and Beginner series.

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

Recommended Hatha Yoga Videos

Beginner Morning Hatha Series

AM Connection Hatha Series

Check out a sped up version of the first video above, to get a quick idea of what Hatha style is like! You will notice beginner poses held for a longer period of time with more instruction.

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Utkatasana - chair powerful pose - yoga pose yoga girl wearing pink and green sparkle set doing yoga inside in cool pink and green yoga studio
Utkatasana – Chair or Powerful Pose

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Asana August 2023: Asanas (Poses) – Reclined Asanas

Happy Asana August 28, 2023 – Asanas (Poses) – Reclined Asanas

Good morning Yogis! We are completing a series on different categories of Asanas I use – Seated, Standing, Heart Opener / Backbend, Hip Opener / Forward Bend, Arm Balance, Inversion, Twist, and Reclined. Today we will cover Reclined Asanas. Please note through this series that many of the Asanas can belong to more than one group – for example a seated twist would clearly belong to both Seated and Twist categories, and a reclined twist would belong to both Reclined and Twist.

Matsyasana - fish pose beginner variation - yoga pose yoga girl wearing blue fish-scale dragon-scale set doing yoga inside in cool indigo blue studio
Matsyasana – Fish Pose

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Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asanas practice challenge for August! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to YouTube videos for various Yoga Styles. For our focus on Reclined Asanas today, I recommend a Yin or Restorative class, which often use passive Reclined Poses.

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. This week I am doing one of my favorites – Beginner AM (20 Minute), which includes the beginner version of this pose that I can do! I modify with more advanced versions of poses including full side plank, standard extended side angle, and lowering slowly from plank to Chaturanga Dandasana / Yoga Push-Up… I am still working arm strength to do the Intermediate version of this class!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try any Reclined Asana. Most Reclined Asanas are beginner and restorative poses, which allow passive stretching. There are also Yoga Workouts utilizing Reclined poses, such as Boat to Crab or repeated Bridge Pose for glute and core exercises!

Today I recommend trying a Yoga Workout for Glutes – Boat to Crab (I usually hold for counts of 3 and do 10 reps) or my absolute favorite Reclined Asana – Supta Kapotasana / Reclined Pigeon!

Reclined Asanas

Viparita Karani – Legs up the Wall Pose

Purvottanasana – Reverse Plank

Ananda Balasana – Happy Baby Pose

Matsyasana – Fish Pose

Supta Kapotasana – Reclined Pigeon Pose

Supta Baddha Konasana – Reclined Bound Angle / Goddess Pose

Navasana – Boat Pose

Setu Bandha Sarvangasana – Bridge Pose

Jathara Parivartanasana – Reclined Twist Pose

 Shavasana – Corpse Pose

Check out more Asanas on Yoga Journal

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Please comment to share your experience! What did you think? Which is your favorite of these Reclined Asanas? Always remember, be kind!

Asana August 2023: Asanas (Poses) – Twist Asanas

Happy Asana August 27, 2023 – Asanas (Poses) – Twist Asanas

Good morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a series on different categories of Asanas I use – Seated, Standing, Heart Opener / Backbend, Hip Opener / Forward Bend, Arm Balance, Inversion, Twist, and Reclined. Today we will cover Twisting Asanas. Please note through this series that many of the Asanas can belong to more than one group – for example a seated twist would clearly belong to both Seated and Twist categories, and a reclined twist would belong to both Reclined and Twist.

Parivrrta Uttanasana - standing forward bend with twist pose - yoga pose yoga at night girl wearing white long-sleeved shirt and purple pants
Parivrrta Uttanasana – Standing Forward Bend Twist

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Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asanas practice challenge for August! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to YouTube videos for various Yoga Styles. For our focus on Twisting Asanas today, I recommend an alignment-focused Iyengar class.

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. This week I am doing one of my favorites – Beginner AM (20 Minute), which includes the beginner version of this pose that I can do! I modify with more advanced versions of poses including full side plank, standard extended side angle, and lowering slowly from plank to Chaturanga Dandasana / Yoga Push-Up… I am still working arm strength to do the Intermediate version of this class!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try any Twist Asana. Most Twist Asanas are beginner poses, or modified beginner poses. Make sure to do each twist on both sides! If you are in a seated pose such as Sukhasana or Easy Pose, I recommend flipping your feet and performing the twist on both sides a second time.

Today I recommend a few rounds of Sun Salutations with twisting on each side in either Ashta Chandrasana / High Lunge or Anjaneyasana / Low Lunge. Turn your torso towards your forward knee!

Twist Asanas

Parivrtta Sukhasana – Seated Twist Pose

Jathara Parivartanasana – Reclined Twist Pose

Parivrtta Anjaneyasana – Low Lunge Twist

Parivrtta Uttanasana – Standing Forward Bend Twist

Ardha Chandrasana – Half Moon Pose

Check out more Asanas on Yoga Journal

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TOP 5 YOGA Equipment and Yoga MATS!

I would recommend a block, couch pillows, or perhaps a folded-up blanket for support under the seat.

Top 5 Yoga Equipment for Newbies

Top 5 Yoga Mats


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Please comment to share your experience! What did you think? Which is your favorite of these Twist Asanas? Always remember, be kind!

Asana August 2023: Asanas (Poses) – Inversion Asanas

Happy Asana August 26, 2023 – Asanas (Poses) – Inversion Asanas

Good morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a series on different categories of Asanas I use – Seated, Standing, Heart Opener / Backbend, Hip Opener / Forward Bend, Arm Balance, Inversion, Twist, and Reclined. Today we will cover Inversion Asanas. Please note through this series that many of the Asanas can belong to more than one group – for example a seated twist would clearly belong to both Seated and Twist categories, and a reclined twist would belong to both Reclined and Twist.

halasana - plow plough pose -  yoga pose yoga girl wearing blue fish-scale dragon-scale set doing yoga inside in cool indigo blue studio
Halasana – Plow Pose

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Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asanas practice challenge for August! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to YouTube videos for various Yoga Styles. For our focus on Inversions Asanas today, I recommend a Vinyasa class, which will help build the arm and core strength for these poses.

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. This week I am doing one of my favorites – Beginner AM (20 Minute), which includes the beginner version of this pose that I can do! I modify with more advanced versions of poses including full side plank, standard extended side angle, and lowering slowly from plank to Chaturanga Dandasana / Yoga Push-Up… I am still working arm strength to do the Intermediate version of this class!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try any Inversion Asana. Most Inversion Asanas are advanced poses, requiring significant upper-body and/or core strength. I do not include a large variety of Inversion poses in my practice since I am still working on strength building. If you do have the strength to practice these more advanced poses safely, please do check the recommended additional poses link below!

Today I recommend trying the most basic Inversion – Legs up the Wall Pose. Or, if you are comfortable, perhaps try Salamba Sarvangasana – Supported Shoulder Stand!

Inversion Asanas

Viparita Karani – Legs up the Wall Pose

Salamba Sarvangasana – Supported Shoulder Stand

Halasana – Plow

Vrschikasana – Scorpion Pose

Ardha Chandrasana – Half Moon Pose

Check out more Asanas on Yoga Journal

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Check our inversions Board On Pinterest!

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Please comment to share your experience! What did you think? Which is your favorite of these Inversion Asanas? Always remember, be kind!

Asana August 2023: Asanas (Poses) – Arm Balancing Asanas

Happy Asana August 25, 2023 – Asanas (Poses) Arm Balancing Asanas

Good morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a series on different categories of Asanas I use – Seated, Standing, Heart Opener / Backbend, Hip Opener / Forward Bend, Arm Balance, Inversion, Twist, and Reclined. Today we will cover Arm Balance Asanas. Please note through this series that many of the Asanas can belong to more than one group – for example a seated twist would clearly belong to both Seated and Twist categories, and a reclined twist would belong to both Reclined and Twist.

Chaturanga Dandasana - four-limbed staff pose - yoga pose yoga girl wearing pink sprinkle print set doing yoga inside in pink and purple yoga studio with artsy effect
Chaturanga Dandasana – Four-Limbed Staff Pose

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Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asanas practice challenge for August! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to YouTube videos for various Yoga Styles. For our focus on Arm Balance Asanas today, I recommend a Vinyasa class, which will use beginner and intermediate Arm Balances.

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. This week I am doing one of my favorites – Beginner AM (20 Minute), which includes the beginner version of this pose that I can do! I modify with more advanced versions of poses including full side plank, standard extended side angle, and lowering slowly from plank to Chaturanga Dandasana / Yoga Push-Up… I am still working arm strength to do the Intermediate version of this class!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try any arm balance Asana. Most Arm Balance Asanas are advanced poses, requiring significant upper-body strength. I do not include a large variety of Arm Balancing poses in my practice since I am still working on strength building. If you do have the strength to practice these more advanced poses safely, please do check the recommended additional poses link below!

Today I recommend a few rounds of Sun Salutations finding your favorite Vinyasa arm balance between Chaturanga Dandasana / Four-Limbed Staff and Ashtanga Namaskara / Knees-Chest-Chin

Arm Balancing Asanas

Chaturanga Dandasana – Four-Limbed Staff

Ashtanga Namaskara – Knees-Chest-Chin

Phalakasana – Plank Pose 

Purvottanasana – Reverse Plank

Vrschikasana – Scorpion Pose

Tolasana – Scales Pose 

Ananda Balasana – Happy Baby Pose

Shisulasana – Dolphin Pose

Adho Mukha Svanasana – Downward Facing Dog

Marjaryasana – Cat Pose

Bitilasana – Cow Pose

Vyaghrasana – Tiger Pose

Eka Hasta Vyaghrasana – One-Handed Tiger Pose

Ardha Chandrasana – Half Moon Pose

Check out more Asanas on Yoga Journal

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Check our Health & Fitness Board On Pinterest!

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Please comment to share your experience! What did you think? Which is your favorite of these Arm Balance Asanas? Always remember, be kind!

Asana August 2023: Asanas (Poses) – Hip Openers / Forward Bend Asanas

Happy Asana August 24, 2023 – Asanas (Poses) – Hip Openers / Forward Bends

Good morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a series on different categories of Asanas I use – Seated, Standing, Heart Opener / Backbend, Hip Opener / Forward Bend, Arm Balance, Inversion, Twist, and Reclined. Today we will cover Hip Openers or Forward Bending Asanas. Please note through this series that many of the Asanas can belong to more than one group – for example a seated twist would clearly belong to both Seated and Twist categories, and a reclined twist would belong to both Reclined and Twist.

Uttanasana - standing forward bend pose  with arm lock - yoga pose yoga girl wearing purple doing yoga inside in purple yoga studio with artsy effect
Uttanasana – Standing Forward Bend with Arm Lock

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Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asanas practice challenge for August! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to YouTube videos for various Yoga Styles. For our focus on Forward Bending Asanas today, I recommend a Vinyasa class, which will flow between Heart Opening and Hip Opening poses.

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. This week I am doing one of my favorites – Beginner AM (20 Minute), which includes the beginner version of this pose that I can do! I modify with more advanced versions of poses including full side plank, standard extended side angle, and lowering slowly from plank to Chaturanga Dandasana / Yoga Push-Up… I am still working arm strength to do the Intermediate version of this class!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try any forward bend Asana. Some Forward Bending Asanas are beginner or basic poses, but I would consider this group as a whole to be intermediate since as you progress, you will come into deeper forward bends in your practice, for example progressing from Uttanasana or Standing Forward Bend into Padangusthasana and Padahastasana. I have found these Asanas to be an important lesson in coming only to where comfortable and breathing to open, rather than pushing oneself to discomfort.

Today I recommend my favorite Balasana or Child Pose Sequence – starting in Child’s Pose with arms back and palms up, then Wide Child’s pose with palms down, and back to Child’s Pose with arms back and palms down.

Hip Opener / Forward Bend Asanas

Uttanasana – Standing Forward Bend

Parivrtta Uttanasana – Standing Forward Bend Twist

Balasana – Child’s Pose

Ananda Balasana – Happy Baby Pose

Padmasana – Lotus Pose

Matsyasana – Fish Pose (with lotus legs)

Gomukhasana – Cow Face Pose

Agnistambhasana – Fire Log Pose

Baddha Konasana – Cobbler / Butterfly / Bound Angle Pose

Supta Baddha Konasana – Reclined Bound Angle / Goddess Pose

Marjaryasana – Cat Pose

Eka Pada Raja Kapotasana – Mermaid Pose

Malasana – Garland Pose

Supta Kapotasana – Reclined Pigeon Pose

Utkata Konasana – Goddess Pose

Check out more Asanas on Yoga Journal

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Asana August 2023: Asanas (Poses) – Heart Openers / Backbend Asanas

Happy Asana August 23, 2023 – Asanas (Poses) – Heart Openers / Backbends

Good morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a series on different categories of Asanas I use – Seated, Standing, Heart Opener / Backbend, Hip Opener / Forward Bend, Arm Balance, Inversion, Twist, and Reclined. Today we will cover Heart Openers or Backbend Asanas. Please note through this series that many of the Asanas can belong to more than one group – for example a seated twist would clearly belong to both Seated and Twist categories, and a reclined twist would belong to both Reclined and Twist.

Sarpasana - snake pose - yoga pose yoga girl wearing pink sprinkle print set doing yoga inside in pink and purple yoga studio with artsy effect
Sarpasana – Snake Pose

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Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asanas practice challenge for August! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to YouTube videos for various Yoga Styles. For our focus on Backbend Asanas today, I recommend a Vinyasa class, which will flow between Heart Opening and Hip Opening poses..

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. This week I am doing one of my favorites – Beginner AM (20 Minute), which includes the beginner version of this pose that I can do! I modify with more advanced versions of poses including full side plank, standard extended side angle, and lowering slowly from plank to Chaturanga Dandasana / Yoga Push-Up… I am still working arm strength to do the Intermediate version of this class!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try any backbend Asana. Some Backbend Asanas are beginner or basic poses, but I would consider this group as a whole to be intermediate since as you progress, you will come into deeper backbends in your practice. Additionally, Yogis must exercise caution with backbends and not push beyond comfort to avoid injury with many of these poses. I find these Asanas to be some of the most important, especially to counter the common forward hunched back from sedentary jobs. These poses open the thighs, chest , shoulders, and/or abdomen.

Today I recommend a few rounds of Sun Salutations finding your favorite Vinyasa backbend between Bhujangasana / Cobra, Sarpasana / Snake, Urdha Svanasana / Upward Facing Dog, and Salamba Bhujangasana / Sphinx – my favorite is Sarpasana / Snake as pictured above! PS my favorite Heart Opener is Ustrasana or Camel Pose, an intermediate Asana we will cover a bit later this summer!

Heart Opener / Backbend Asanas

Bhujangasana – Cobra Pose

Salamba Bhujangasana – Sphinx

Sarpasana – Snake Pose

Urdha Svanasana – Upward Facing Dog Pose

Anuvittasana – Standing Backbend

Parighasana – Gate Pose

Talasana – Palm Tree Pose

Ashta Chandrasana – High Lunge

Anjaneyasana – Low Lunge

Matsyasana – Fish Pose

Gomukhasana – Cow Face Pose

Bitilasana – Cow Pose

Salabhasana – Locust Pose

Uttana Shishosana – Extended Puppy / Melting Heart Pose

Ustrasana – Camel Pose

Eka Pada Raja Kapotasana – Mermaid Pose

Dhanurasana – Bow Pose

Purvottanasana – Reverse or Upward Plank

Eka Hasta Vyaghrasana – One-Handed Tiger Pose

Baddha & Viparita Virabhadrasana – Humble & Reverse Warrior

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Asana August 2023: Asanas (Poses) – Standing Asanas

Happy Asana August 22, 2023 – Asanas (Poses) – Standing Asanas

Good morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a series on different categories of Asanas I use – Seated, Standing, Heart Opener / Backbend, Hip Opener / Forward Bend, Arm Balance, Inversion, Twist, and Reclined. Today we will cover Standing Asanas. Please note through this series that many of the Asanas can belong to more than one group – for example a seated twist would clearly belong to both Seated and Twist categories, and a reclined twist would belong to both Reclined and Twist.

Trikonasana - triangle pose - yoga pose yoga girl wearing pink and black lace set doing yoga inside in cool pink and purple yoga studio
Trikonasana – Triangle Pose

Like this Yoga set? Click here for product links and discount codes!

Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asanas practice challenge for August! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to YouTube videos for various Yoga Styles. For our focus on Standing Asanas today, I recommend an Iyengar Series.

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. This week I am doing one of my favorites – Beginner AM (20 Minute), which includes the beginner version of this pose that I can do! I modify with more advanced versions of poses including full side plank, standard extended side angle, and lowering slowly from plank to Chaturanga Dandasana / Yoga Push-Up… I am still working arm strength to do the Intermediate version of this class!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try any standing Asana. The Sitting Asanas we started with yesterday are generally beginner or easy Asanas. Some Standing Asanas are beginner or basic poses, but I would consider this group as a whole to be intermediate since many more advanced Asanas are Standing poses. Most Yoga classes begin with a standing sequence, since these are generally more energizing and strengthening. Today I recommend a balancing Asana like Vrksasana – Tree Pose or a standing pose combining strength and flexibility such as Trikonasana – Triangle Pose.

Standing Asanas

Tadasana – Mountain Pose

Virabhadrasana – Warrior Poses 1 2 & 3 and Virabhadrasana Variations – Humble & Reversed Warrior

Trikonasana & Utthita Parsvakonasana – Triangle & Extended Side Angle

Utkatasana – Powerful / Chair Pose

Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana – Standing Hand to Big Toe

Anuvittasana – Standing Backbend

Vrksasana – Tree Pose

Talasana – Palm Tree Pose

Ashta Chandrasana – High Lunge

Uttanasana – Standing Forward Bend

Utkata Konasana – Goddess Pose

Garudasana – Eagle Pose

Ardha Chandrasana – Half Moon Pose

Utthita Tadasana – Five Pointed Star Pose

Check out more Asanas on Yoga Journal

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Asana August 2023: Asanas (Poses) – Seated Asanas

Happy Asana August 21, 2023 – Asanas (Poses) – Seated Asanas

Good morning Yogis! We just wrapped up practice of each of the Limbs of Yoga. Today we will begin a series on different categories of Asanas I use – Seated, Arm Balance, Heart Opener / Backbend, Hip Opener / Forward Bend, Standing, Inversion, Twist, and Reclined. Today we will begin with Seated and review favorite seated poses that are best for meditation. Please note through this series that many of the Asanas can belong to more than one group – for example a seated twist would clearly belong to both Seated and Twist categories, and a reclined twist would belong to both Reclined and Twist.

Sukhasana - easy pose - yoga pose yoga girl wearing pink and black lace set doing yoga inside in cool pink and purple yoga studio
Sukhasana – Easy Pose

Like this Yoga set? Click here for product links and discount codes!

Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asanas practice challenge for August! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to YouTube videos for various Yoga Styles. For our focus on Seated Asanas today, I recommend a passive Yin or Restorative class.

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. Today I am doing one of my favorites – Beginner AM (20 Minute), which includes the beginner version of this pose that I can do! I modify with more advanced versions of poses including full side plank, standard extended side angle, and lowering slowly from plank to Chaturanga Dandasana / Yoga Push-Up… I am still working arm strength to do the Intermediate version of this class!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try any seated Asana. Firstly, please try all of them, at least briefly, and see which feels best for you! Please note different seats are comfortable for different bodies. I enjoy Padmasana / Lotus Pose which many Yogis find very uncomfortable, and I find Virasana / Hero’s Pose a bit rough on my knees and best with a block under my seat. Also, these seated poses are also the best positions for your meditation and Pranayama practice! Perhaps select your favorite as your comfortable seated position for your meditation practice going forward!

If you are able, I recommend Padmasana / Lotus Pose or try Gomukhasana / Cow Face Pose for the current Taurus Season!

Seated Asanas

Upper Body

Firstly, you should keep your head, neck, and shoulders aligned over your hips in each pose. Secondly, keep your shoulders down and back, and try to keep your back from rounding. Finally, your hands can either gently rest on knees and/or in your favorite mudra / placement for meditation. We will focus just on the lower body in each of these positions. Also, if any poses are uncomfortable, try with a couch pillow or block under your seat! Lastly, I find it helps to switch my legs and do both sides for any cross legged positions to even out my posture!

Sukhasana – Easy Pose

Sukhasana - comfortable cross-legged easy pose - yoga pose forest yogi girl wearing black, outdoors yoga in the woods
Sukhasana – Easy Pose

Sukhasana (sook-HA-sa-nuh) is basically just a comfortable seated position! Firstly, look down at your legs – you should see a small triangle of empty space. Keep your torso straight and tall over your hips. Then take note of your rib cage. If you notice the bottom of rib cage is sticking out, pull back in and down to correct your posture. Finally, notice your shoulders. Try to gently roll your shoulders back and down, away from your ears. Notice how this helps your chest open. You can put your hands on the ground and gently press to lengthen your back, or rest your hands on your knees. You can pull a bit on your knees to help open your chest and help keep your back straight.

YOGA TEACHERS – see more on Tummee

Siddhasana – Adept’s Pose

Siddhasana - adepts adept's pose - yoga pose forest yogi girl wearing black, outdoors yoga in the woods
Siddhasana – Adept’s Pose

Siddhasana (sid-DAH-sa-nuh) is basically a slightly more difficult version of Sukhasana / Easy Pose. Start in Sukhasana / Easy Pose. Then, spread your knees a bit further, and bring your feet in towards your groin. Next, look down and make sure there is no empty space between your legs. Finally, make sure you keep your back straight, not rounded! If you notice your back rounding in this pose, move your legs back out to Sukhasana / easy pose. I prefer Siddhasana over Sukhasana, especially because bringing in my feet helps me maintain a straighter back.

YOGA TEACHERS – see more on Tummee

Padmasana – Lotus Pose

Padmasana - full lotus pose - yoga pose forest yogi girl wearing black, outdoors yoga in the woods
Padmasana – Lotus Pose

This is a comfortable seat for advanced Yogis only. Please do not force yourself into this pose! Many Yogis work Ardha Padmasana (ARD-ha pahd-MA-sa-nuh), or Half Lotus and can only express the full pose after extensive Asana practice. Make sure you keep your back straight, not rounded! I ALWAYS do an Asana series in this pose, cross my legs the other way, and repeat! This leg base is used in many other advanced Asanas and variations, such as Tolasana / Scales Pose and advanced Matsyasana – Fish Pose.

First, start in Siddhasana / Adept’s Pose. Lift and pull in your right foot, and place on top of your left thigh, as close to your hip as possible. You can leave your other leg here, in Ardha Padmasana – Half Lotus. Or, you can pull your left leg up and over onto your right leg, to come into the full expression of Padmasana.

If you are being extra festive today, perhaps also try Lotus Mudra with your hands, and read more about its history!

YOGA TEACHERS – see more on Tummee

Virasana – Hero’s Pose

Virasana - hero hero's pose - yoga pose forest yogi girl wearing black, outdoors yoga in the woods
Virasana – Hero’s Pose

Since Virasana (veer-AH-sa-nuh) or Hero’s Pose is a kneeling Asana, it usually much more comfortable for Yogis with tight hips than the cross legged poses above. Firstly start kneeling with knees and toes together. Then, bring the toes apart, and sit yourself down between your legs. This pose can be rough on my knees, and sometimes bothers my heels and tops of my feet if I have been wearing high heels. I therefore find this pose much more comfortable with a block under my seat as pictured below.

YOGA TEACHERS – see more on Tummee

More Seated Asanas

Gomukhasana – Cow Face Pose

Dandasana – Staff Pose

Navasana – Boat Pose

Parivrtta Sukhasana – Seated Twist Pose

Check out more Asanas on Yoga Journal

Want to check out more types of Yoga? Check out our Asana Styles Guide!

Check out our Top 5 Yoga Mats and Equipment for Newbies!

You may want to try a block, couch pillow, blanket, or bolster to help yourself find a comfortable seat.

Top 5 Yoga Equipment for Newbies

Top 5 Yoga Mats


Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

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Asana August 2023: Virgo Season – Goddess Pose

Happy Asana August 20, 2023 – Virgo Season – Goddess Pose

Good Morning Yogis, it is Upper Limbs Day! We just finished a series covering Asanas for each of the first three Limbs of Yoga!

Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asana practice challenge for August. Please see our Asana Styles page for links to youtube videos for various Yoga Styles. For today, I recommend a meditative Yin or Restorative session.

Utkata Konasana - standing goddess pose - yoga pose forest yogi girl wearing green dress, outdoors barefoot yoga in the woods
Utkata Konasana – Goddess Pose

Good morning Yogis!

Today is the start of Virgo Season – Happy Birthday Virgo Yogis! We will cover two Asanas today inspired by Virgo Season – Goddess and Reclined Goddess! PS if you would like to finish our week of special Pranayama exercises with a Zodiac-themed breath, try Simhasana Pranayama – Lion’s Breath for Leo or Nadi Shodhana Pranayama – Channel Clearing Breath for Aries.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try the Goddess Asanas inspired by the start of Virgo Season!

Utkata Konasana – Goddess Pose

This Goddess Pose is a standing pose. The literal translation from Sanskrit is Fierce Angle Pose, so try to embody a fierce warrior Goddess for this pose! Only come down as far as you are comfortable! Hold for 30-60 seconds.

Feet – Feet should be about 3 – 4 1/2 feet apart, flat on the mat. Turn your toes out to point 45 degrees out to each side.

Legs and Hips – Bend your knees to come into this pose. The full expression is with thighs parallel to the ground, but only come down as far as is comfortable. It is more important to keep your knees over your ankles than to have a deep bend in the leg! Try to keep your hips neutral, but try to keep your booty tucked under rather than sticking out.

Torso – Keep a straight back. Take note of your rib cage. If you notice the bottom of rib cage is sticking out, pull back in and down to correct your posture. Next notice your shoulders. Try to gently roll your shoulders back and down, away from your ears. Notice how this helps your chest open.

Arms – Cactus your arms – hold arms up with elbows at 90 degree angles, fingers spread, and palms facing forward.

Head and Neck – Keep your head in line with the rest of your torso, looking straight ahead. Note where your ears are compared to your shoulders. Most of us keep our heads slightly forward. If you notice you are doing this, tuck your chin slightly and gently press back to bring your neck and ears into alignment with your shoulders.

YOGA TEACHERS – see more on Tummee – Utkata Konasana

Supta Baddha Konasana – reclined goddess pose

This Asana is called both Reclined Goddess Pose and Reclined Bound Angle Pose, the literal Sanskrit translation. This comfortable passive stretch is a common pose for Restorative Yoga! You can place a couch pillow under the knees, head, or upper body for support. You can place a cushion or block just below your shoulder blades for a more advanced chest-opening. I try to work this pose in near the end of nearly all my longer Asana practices.

Supta Baddha Konasana - reclined bound angle pose reclined goddess - yoga pose forest yogi girl wearing green dress, outdoors yoga in the woods
Supta Baddha Konasana – Reclined Goddess

Feet and Legs – Your legs should be turned out and feet together. Let your knees fall to the ground, as far as is comfortable.

Hips – Hips should face up to the sky. Take note of your booty – it should be almost tucked under rather than sticking out.

Torso and Head  – Let your back rest or even sink into the ground comfortably in this Asana. Look straight up, and rest your head comfortably on your mat, or perhaps on a pillow.

Arms – Raise your arms above your head on the mat as is comfortable. Keep your shoulders down. Either grab each elbow, or perhaps cactus your arms out to the side.

YOGA TEACHERS – see more on Tummee – Supta Baddha Konasana

Want to check out more types of Yoga? Check out our Asana Styles Guide!

Tag @dailyyogi.world with your Goddess Pose Pics on Instagram!

Check out our Top 5 Yoga Mats and Equipment for Newbies!

You may want to try a block, couch pillow, blanket, or bolster to help yourself find a comfortable seat.

Top 5 Yoga Equipment for Newbies

Top 5 Yoga Mats


Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

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Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

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Please comment and let us know how Goddess pose was for you! Did you try both Asanas? Do you want to share an Asana inspiration for your sign’s pose? Always remember, be kind!

Asana August 2023: Upper 4 Limbs of Yoga – Hasta Mudras

Happy Asana August 19, 2023 – Meditations: Mudras

Good Morning Yogis, it is Upper Limbs Day! We just finished a series covering Asanas for each of the first three Limbs of Yoga!

Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asana practice challenge for August. Please see our Asana Styles page for links to youtube videos for various Yoga Styles. For Upper Limbs Day today, I recommend a meditative Yin or Restorative session.

We just wrapped up practice of each of the Limbs of Yoga. Before we will begin a series on more advanced specific Asanas, I want to revisit a subtle technique. Mudras are usually translated as seals, marks or special hand gestures. The primary benefits and reasons the subtle techniques of Bandhas and Mudras are for altering the flow of energy during particular Asanas. This discussion behind these subtle techniques is beyond our short and sweet daily practices, but please see the links for more detailed information on the philosophy behind each practice.

Hasta Mudras – Special Hand Gestures

I have been familiar with using Mudras from Bollywood dancing since before beginning Yoga. Beginner Yogis may be familiar with the ‘prayer hands’ during Asana class, or recognize some of these gestures from images of meditation practices, and Hindu or Buddhist imagery.

There are hundreds Mudras! Each has a unique purpose, benefit, and meaning, but a handful of Mudras from the image below are most common. The power of each Mudra is tied to both elemental and reflexology.

PS there are also Mudras performed with other parts of the body such as Mana Mudras with the head, a practice particular to Kundalini. I find generally in the US that’ Mudra’ refers to hand seals only, and other special practices are referred to by their full names.

Mudras - Atmanjali, Apana, Gyan, Prithvi, Shunya, Vayu, Prana, Vajra, Apan Vayu, Varuna, Muluka, Abhaya infographic with blue background
Mudras – Atmanjali, Apana, Gyan, Prithvi, Shunya, Vayu, Prana, Vajra, Apan Vayu, Varuna, Muluka, Abhaya

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try a Mudra. I recommend trying both Gyan Mudra and Apana Mudra, which we will integrate with our Asanas later this week. These are used both in Asana and meditation practices.

Want more on Meditation?
Check our Meditation Board on Pinterest!

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Please comment to share your experience! What did you think? Have you used Mudras before in your practice? Always remember, be kind!

Asana August 2023: Pranayama (Breathing) – Bikram Pranayama / Hot Yoga Breath

Happy Asana August 18, 2023 – Pranayama (Breathing) – Hot Yoga Breath

Good Morning Yogis! Today is Pranayama Day! We are in the middle of a daily Asana practice challenge for August, so we will revisit a moving Pranayama technique common in all kinds of Hot Yoga Classes, that originated in Bikram studios. This breath technique is part of the opening in the classic Bikram series.

Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

Please see our Asana Styles page for links to youtube videos for various Yoga Styles. For Pranayama Day today, I recommend a Hot Yoga Style class, which will include this breath technique!

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. Today I am doing one of my favorites – Beginner AM (20 Minute), which I modify with more advanced versions of poses including full side plank, standard extended side angle, and lowering slowly from plank to Chaturanga Dandasana / Yoga Push-Up… I am still working arm strength to do the Intermediate version of this class. I typically practice Asana most consistently in the morning, and this is my favorite morning series! PS I keep Ocean for the background sound in my Yoga Studio App, to help remind me to use Ujjayi Pranayama or Ocean Breath!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is Bikram’s Pranayama a moving Pranayama Practice used in all kinds of Hot Yoga classes. We will start diaphragmatic breathing, which is part one of this breath. I am sure you will have tried this Pranayama technique if you have practiced any kind of style at a Hot Yoga studio – this breath feels particularly great in a hot and humid environment.

This is a great technique to watch and follow along – click here for video instructions!

Bikram Pranayama / Hot Yoga Breath

  • Clasp your hands together, and bring your fists under your chin with your thumbs at your throat. Squeeze your elbows together.
  • Inhale through your nose into your belly, and allow elbows to float up, keeping your chin in place.
  • Let your your chin float up and exhale, as you squeeze your elbows together.
  • Continue the cycle – allow your chin float down and elbows to float up on your inhale.

Want more on Pranayama? Check out our Pranayama Guide!

Want more on Pranayama?
Check our Pranayama Board on Pinterest!

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Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

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Please comment and let me know what you thought of this Pranayama exercise! Do you incorporate Pranayama into your Asana practice? Have you tried Hot Yoga or this breath technique? Do you have another Pranayama practice you particularly enjoy? Always remember, be kind!