This variation on the traditional lunge helps stretch the hamstrings, hips and buttocks.
Lunge variations to stretch the hamstrings and hips
Brief yoga videos for stretching wrists and shoulders
Sometimes it’s hard to find more than 5 minutes in the day to sit down and stretch. So if you only have 5 minutes, or even just two, here’s a couple of options for stretching and releasing your shoulders and
A little strength and stretch for the shoulders – part 2
Just after my recent talk to the NZ Alpine Club on yoga and functional movement, I found myself talking with a fellow climber about activating the muscles in your back when climbing to protect your shoulder. Last week’s dolphin pose
A little strength and stretch for the shoulders – part 1
There are many ways to build strength in your shoulders, arms and upper back. Using static yoga poses can be less demanding on your shoulder joints and gives you the opportunity to think about which muscles you’re using. These are
Variation with bridge pose
We often use bridge pose at the end of class to open the shoulders and chest, build a little strength in the lengths and counter core strengthening poses. There are many variations of this pose, but I rarely have time
Simple seated neck stretches
Lots of people have been asking for ways to stretch the neck recently. So here’s a simple approach. Although releasing tension in the neck is often much more about stretching the shoulders, back and chest. Find a comfortable seated position.
Challenge your one leg balance skills with twisting
Balancing on one leg is a good way to work on balance and it strengthens the muscles in your feet (especially when barefoot), ankles and legs. To keep it interesting, add variations or try closing your eyes. This pose is
Gentle seated twist
A key factor in finding a healthy and relieving spinal twist is keeping the twist in your spine, versus twisting your hips. Sometimes this can be easier to do while seated because your hips stay in a fixed position. A
Strong spinal twist lying down
This version of a spinal twist lying down is quite intense. It’s not appropriate if you have a history of spinal injuries. Instead try the basic spinal twist. Start on your back. Bend your knees and bring your feet to
Open hip spinal twist
Following from last week’s basic spinal twist, here’s another variation. With any spinal twist, be careful as you twist – being gentle on your hips and back. Never push or force your body. . Start on your back. Bend your