Yoga Exercises - Yoga Asanas (Yoga Postures) & their Benefits

Yoga was handed down by ancient Indian sages and is now widely popular in the western world because of its wide range of benefits. The word “asana” is derived from the Sanskrit word which means posture. Each asana has its own distinct name, form and a unique way of performing. Many celebrities regularly practice different yoga asanas and have benefited highly from it. Whether you want to loose that extra fat from your body or just want to enhance your concentration level or the flexibility of your body, yoga asanas will give you all round benefit. It helps in maintaining our body balance, which is of utmost importance as any disequilibrium within the body, could wreck havoc.

SURYA NAMASKAR (Sun Salutations)
Generally, every routine of yoga asanas should begin with Surya Namaskar, which is intended to warm the body for practice, unify the breath and body, and promote both strength and flexibility.

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Yoga Postures

BASIC YOGA POSTURE SQUENCES
Uttanasana (standing forward bend) provides strength to the spinal cord and helps to cure many back problems. Paschimothanasana actually stretches the back body, makes the spine more limber, and helps to keep you injury-free.

RESROTATIVE PRACTICE: Balasana or Child’s Pose
Balasana (child’s pose) helps to stretch and relax the shoulders, the neck, and the back of the body.

1. Sit on the floor on your knees
2. Bring your knees wide apart
3. Extend you hands in front of you on the floor, palm up
4. Rest your hips down toward your heels
5. Rest your forehead on the floor
*you can also practice this with your arms resting at your sides
6. Breathe gently and remain in that position for two minutes

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Yoga Poses