How To

How to Do Advanced Poses in Ashtanga Yoga

By L. Anikow, eHow Editor
Rate: (1 Ratings)

Ashtanga is considered the most challenging and athletic of yoga styles. Practiced by those looking for an intense workout, it attracts people who enjoy the fluid, fast-moving, strength building aspects of the practice. The degree of difficulty can be great so only experienced yoga students who enjoy pushing their yoga practice should attempt the following postures.

Difficulty: Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Yoga mat
  • Yoga wear

    Side Plank Pose

  1. Step 1

    Start in Plank Pose.

  2. Step 2

    Move your left hand to the center of your eye line and shift your body to the outside edge of your left foot.

  3. Step 3

    Stack your right foot onto your left and turn your torso to the right. Lift through your hips and support your weight with the left foot and arm.

  4. Step 4

    Extend your right arm up and turn your head to gaze up at your hand.

  5. Step 5

    Pay attention to your body alignment; your body should be on a diagonal.

  6. Step 6

    Raise your right leg up and grab your big toe with your right hand. Hold this posture for 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

  7. Crow Pose

  8. Step 1

    Begin with standing legs hip width apart.

  9. Step 2

    Bend at the knees and place your hands on the floor, fingers spread and shoulder distance apart. In a crouching position, lift your feet up off the ground by placing your thighs onto the back of your upper arms. Do this by shifting your weight forward.

  10. Step 3

    Hold this pose for 15 to 20 seconds.

  11. Head Stand

  12. Step 1

    Start in Child’s Pose.

  13. Step 2

    Bend your elbows and clasp your hands together.

  14. Step 3

    Place the top of your head on the floor in between your hands.

  15. Step 4

    Begin to lift your feet and bent knees up over your head. As you shift your weight and find your balance, start to straighten your legs up into a headstand.

  16. Step 5

    Hold this pose for 1 minute or longer. The headstand is the King of Yoga Postures.

Tips & Warnings
  • Check with your physician before you try these exercises.

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