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Step 1
Press your feet firmly into the floor when in a standing pose. Your body’s alignment starts there, so you want to feel balanced and grounded.
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Step 2
Avoid hyperextension of your knees when your legs are straight. It puts pressure on your tendons and ligaments--you don’t want to stretch and strain them, as it’s their job to support your joints.
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Step 3
Keep your belly soft. If you want to have good posture in Hatha yoga, don’t suck in your tummy. It needs to be relaxed so as not to restrict breathing or movement.
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Step 4
Keep your shoulder blades on your back. It’s their function to support the upper body, but your shoulder blades cannot do their job if you’re slumped over. Pretend your shoulder blades have weights on them pulling them down toward the ground. Your shoulders will automatically be pulled back and your chest will rise.
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Step 5
Inhale deeply through the nose in preparation for each pose. This expands the body and the length of the spine. Exhale as you move into the pose, unless otherwise instructed.
