| Virtual
yoga class |
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| Emily
demonstrates the cat stretch pose |
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Praa
sands based Yoga instructor Emily Walker shows us some virtual yoga
poses (asanas) try at home. |
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The
Tree
Begin
by standing tall with your feet together. Find your optimum point
of balance by gently moving your weight from the balls of your feet
to the heels of your feet. Then stand still for a few moments. Transfer
all of your weight and balance to the right foot.
This enables you to release the left foot, bending the knee and
placing the left foot on the inside of the right leg. Bring the
palms of your hands together in front of your chest and then slowly
extend above your head.
To achieve this posture it is helpful to keep your gaze fixed on
a point in front of you. Now repeat standing on your left leg. This
posture strengthens and tones the muscles in the chest, legs and
back. It also works to improve concentration and balance.
The
Butterfly
Begin
by sitting on the floor, with your legs stretched out in front of
you. Ensure that you are sitting upright.
Bend your knees and place the souls of your feet together. Interlace
your fingers and clasp your hands around your toes. With the souls
of your feet still touching draw your feet as close as you can conformably
in towards your body.
Once again ensure that you are sitting up tall. Now gently allow
your knees to bounce up and down. This gently increases flexibility
in the hips and stretches the thigh muscles.
The
cat stretch
Begin
by positioning yourself on all fours, with your arms and hands shoulder
width apart and your knees a little distance apart. As you inhale
drop your spine down whilst stretching your head forwards, up and
back.
As you exhale raise your spine upwards, pulling your stomach muscles
towards your spine at the same time lower your head looking towards
your belly button. Repeat six times. This posture develops flexibility
in the spine and strengthens stomach muscles.
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