Jai Salsbery | E-RYT 500, CPT, CES, Nutrition Coach

Standing Split Pose (Urdhva Prasarita Eka Padasana) Interesting Fact: Standing Split Pose, or Urdhva Prasarita Eka Padasana, is not only a powerful balancing posture but also an excellent way to increase flexibility in the hamstrings and hips. This pose is often used in dance and gymnastics training due to its ability to enhance leg strength

Standing Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana) Interesting Fact: Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana, or Standing Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose, is a classic balancing posture in yoga. It is known for its ability to enhance concentration and focus, making it a favorite among practitioners looking to improve their mental clarity. Benefits of Standing Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose Contraindications Practice Guide Dristi (Gaze):

Standing Half Forward Bend (Ardha Uttanasana) Interesting Fact: Ardha Uttanasana, or Standing Half Forward Bend, is often referred to as the “Half Lift” or “Halfway Lift” in yoga classes. This pose is a key transition in Sun Salutations, helping to lengthen the spine and prepare the body for deeper forward bends. Benefits of Standing Half

Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana) Interesting Fact: Uttanasana, or Standing Forward Bend, is derived from the Sanskrit words “ut” (intense) and “tan” (to stretch). This pose is a staple in many yoga sequences, especially in Sun Salutations, and is known for its deep stretching benefits. Benefits of Standing Forward Bend Physical Benefits: Energetic Benefits: Contraindications Practice

Staff Pose (Dandasana) Interesting Fact: Staff Pose, or Dandasana, is often considered the foundation of all seated poses in yoga. It is named after the Sanskrit word “Danda,” meaning “staff,” symbolizing the spine’s strength and support. Benefits of Staff Pose Physical Benefits: Energetic Benefits: Contraindications Practice Guide Dristi (Gaze): Focus on a point straight ahead

Monkey Pose / Splits Pose (Hanumanasana) Interesting Fact Hanumanasana, also known as Monkey Pose or Splits Pose, is named after the Hindu deity Hanuman, who is celebrated for his incredible leaps. This pose symbolizes his legendary leap from India to Sri Lanka in the epic Ramayana, embodying strength, devotion, and the ability to overcome obstacles.

Sphinx Pose (Salamba Bhujangasana) Interesting Fact: Sphinx Pose, or Salamba Bhujangasana, is named after the mythical Sphinx, symbolizing strength and wisdom. This gentle backbend is often used in Yin Yoga and is accessible to practitioners of all levels. Benefits of Sphinx Pose Contraindications Practice Guide Dristi (Gaze): Focus on a point straight ahead or slightly

Sleeping Vishnu Pose (Anantasana) Interesting Fact: The name “Anantasana” is derived from the Sanskrit words “Ananta” meaning infinite or endless, and “asana” meaning posture. This pose symbolizes Lord Vishnu resting on the thousand-headed serpent, Sheshanaga, at the bottom of the primordial ocean. Benefits of Sleeping Vishnu Pose Contraindications Detailed Guide to the Pose Dristi (Gaze):

Side Plank Pose (Vasisthasana) Interesting Fact: Side Plank Pose, or Vasisthasana, is named after the sage Vasistha, one of the most revered Vedic sages. This pose not only challenges your physical strength but also your mental steadiness, embodying the wisdom and clarity that Vasistha is known for. Benefits of Side Plank Pose Physical Benefits: Energetic

Side Crane (Crow) Pose (Parsva Bakasana) Interesting Fact: Side Crane Pose, or Parsva Bakasana, is a challenging arm balance that combines the elements of a deep twist and a powerful arm balance. It is a variation of the traditional Crow Pose (Bakasana) and requires significant core strength and flexibility. Benefits of Side Crane Pose Physical

Shoulder-Pressing Pose (Bhujapidasana) Interesting Fact: Shoulder-Pressing Pose, known as Bhujapidasana in Sanskrit, is derived from the words “Bhuja” meaning arm or shoulder, and “Pida” meaning pressure. This arm balance pose is a testament to the strength and flexibility of the practitioner. Benefits of Shoulder-Pressing Pose Physical Benefits: Energetic Benefits: Contraindications Avoid Shoulder-Pressing Pose if you

Shoulder Stand Pose (Sarvangasana) Interesting Fact: Shoulder Stand, known as Sarvangasana in Sanskrit, is often referred to as the “Queen of Asanas” due to its comprehensive benefits for the entire body. The name Sarvangasana translates to “all limbs pose,” highlighting its impact on various parts of the body. Benefits of Shoulder Stand Physical Benefits: Energetic

Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana) Interesting Fact Paschimottanasana, or Seated Forward Bend, is named from the Sanskrit words “paschima” (west or back of the body) and “uttana” (intense stretch). This pose symbolizes the intense stretch of the entire back side of the body, from the heels to the head, and is traditionally performed while facing the

Scale Pose (Tolasana) Interesting Fact Tolasana, or Scale Pose, is a powerful arm-balancing pose that requires strength and focus. Named after the shape of a balancing scale, this pose symbolizes equilibrium of mind and body. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Tolasana Exiting the Pose Counter Poses Pro Tips

Revolved Wide-Legged Forward Bend Pose (Parivrtta Prasarita Padottanasana) Interesting Fact Parivrtta Prasarita Padottanasana, also known as Revolved Wide-Legged Forward Bend Pose, is often referred to as the “Windmill Pose” due to the arm movements that resemble the blades of a windmill. This pose is a powerful combination of forward bending and twisting, offering a unique

Revolved Triangle Pose (Parivrtta Trikonasana) Interesting Fact Parivrtta Trikonasana, or Revolved Triangle Pose, is a standing twist that challenges balance and flexibility. This pose not only strengthens and stretches the body but also improves digestion and detoxifies the internal organs.  Benefits  Contraindications  Practice Guide Performing Parivrtta Trikonasana  Exiting the Pose  Counter Poses  Pro Tips 

Revolved Side Angle Pose (Parivrtta Parsvakonasana) Interesting Fact Parivrtta Parsvakonasana, or Revolved Side Angle Pose, is a dynamic asana that combines a deep lunge with a twist. This pose not only enhances physical strength and flexibility but also stimulates the internal organs, making it a holistic practice for both body and mind. Benefits Contraindications Practice

Revolved Head-to-Knee Pose (Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana) Interesting Fact Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana, or Revolved Head-to-Knee Pose, is a unique combination of a forward bend, side stretch, and twist. This pose not only stretches the body but also stimulates the internal organs, making it a comprehensive asana for both physical and energetic benefits. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide

Revolved Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Parivrtta Hasta Padangusthasana) Interesting Fact Parivrtta Hasta Padangusthasana, also known as Revolved Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose, is often referred to as “Dancing Shiva” due to its resemblance to the cosmic dance of the Hindu deity Shiva. This pose symbolizes the balance between creation and destruction, embodying the cyclical nature of the universe. Benefits Contraindications

Revolved Half Moon Pose (Parivrtta Ardha Chandrasana) Interesting Fact Parivrtta Ardha Chandrasana, or Revolved Half Moon Pose, is a dynamic standing posture that combines balance, strength, and flexibility. This pose not only challenges your physical stability but also enhances mental focus, making it a favorite among advanced yogis. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Parivrtta Ardha

Revolved Chair Pose (Parivrtta Utkatasana) Interesting Fact Parivrtta Utkatasana, or Revolved Chair Pose, is also known as Twisted Chair Pose. This pose is a powerful combination of strength and flexibility, often referred to as the “fierce twist” due to its intense engagement of the core and lower body. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Parivrtta Utkatasana

Reverse Plank (Purvottanasana) Interesting Fact Purvottanasana, or Reverse Plank Pose, is also known as Upward Plank Pose. It is a powerful pose that not only strengthens the body but also symbolizes the rising sun, bringing energy and vitality to the practitioner. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Purvottanasana Exiting the Pose Counter Poses Pro Tips

Reclining Big-Toe Pose (Supta Padangusthasana) Interesting Fact Supta Padangusthasana, or Reclining Big-Toe Pose, is a restorative yoga posture that not only stretches the hamstrings but also helps in aligning the pelvis and relieving lower back pain. This pose is often used in therapeutic yoga to address issues related to sciatica and high blood pressure. Benefits

Pyramid Pose (Parsvottanasana) Interesting Fact Parsvottanasana, commonly known as Pyramid Pose, is named for the shape the body forms in this posture, resembling a pyramid. This pose is also referred to as Intense Side Stretch Pose due to the deep stretch it provides to the sides of the body. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Parsvottanasana

Extended Puppy Pose (Uttana Shishosana) Interesting Fact: Extended Puppy Pose, or Uttana Shishosana, is a delightful blend of Downward Dog and Child’s Pose. This pose mimics the stretch of a puppy waking up from a nap, providing a deep and soothing stretch for the spine and shoulders. Benefits of Extended Puppy Pose Physical Benefits: Energetic

Plow Pose (Halasana) Interesting Fact Halasana, or Plow Pose, is named after the traditional plow used in Indian agriculture. This pose is often practiced towards the end of a yoga session to prepare the body for relaxation and meditation. Benefits Contraindications  ***Dangerous Pose*** Practice Guide Performing Halasana Exiting the Pose Counter Poses Pro Tips

Plank Pose (Phalakasana) Interesting Fact Phalakasana, commonly known as Plank Pose, is a foundational yoga pose that is often used in various fitness routines. It is not only a yoga pose but also a staple in many strength training programs due to its effectiveness in building core strength. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Phalakasana Exiting

Pigeon Pose (Kapotasana) Interesting Fact Kapotasana, or Pigeon Pose, is named for its resemblance to a pigeon with its chest puffed out. This pose is known for its deep hip-opening benefits and is often used to release emotional tension stored in the hips. Benefits Contraindications Practice Guide Performing Kapotasana Exiting the Pose Counter Poses Pro