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
Restorative yoga back bend
You may have heard me mention restorative yoga. It’s a very different type of yoga – all of the postures are lying on the floor and we use blankets and pillows to support our body. This style of yoga is
Child’s pose with deep shoulder stretch
This is a less common version of child’s pose. It’s known as hare pose, though even this is a variation of hare pose. It’s a great way to find a deep shoulder and chest stretch while calming. Caution: You will
Extended child’s pose
There are a number of variations of child’s pose that offer ways to stretch while resting. This is one of my favourites, especially after taking a heavy pack off. Think of the action you see cats do when they dig
Plank variations for core and strength work
Plank is one of those poses that appears in just about every yoga class. A lot. Sometimes, we just see it as a transition pose – just getting from down dog to the floor for a rest. But plank requires
Forearm down dog for shoulder stretch and strengthen
I enjoyed the long weekend on a climbing trip on the South Island. When I started to write this week’s tip, there were calls for a shoulder stretch. This pose is most known for strengthening the shoulders, but it can
Build upper body strength to step from down dog to lunge
Most yoga classes will at some point ask you to step from down dog to a lunge. It seems like a simple request, but it requires a combination of flexibility, strength and coordination that takes time to practice. In addition
The opposite to a press-up (stretch chest and shoulders)
We’ve been working on building strength in the shoulders and back through plank and chattaranga (press-up), down dog and cobra. Purvottanasana (or up dog) is often called the counter pose to press-ups because it stretches the muscles across your chest,
Warm-up and coordination challenge for shoulders [video]
Last week I introduced a new way of warming up your shoulders that involves a simple practice of moving your arms through 4 positions. The practice not only warms up your shoulders but can help improve your coordination and focus.
Shoulder strength through dolpin pose (modified down dog)
Last week we looked at ways to strengthen the shoulders. This week I feature another pose strengthening pose that also incorporates active stretching for the shoulders. To get in to dolphin pose, start on your hands and knees. Bring your