Summertime! I was trying to get inspiration for this newsletter and I took a walk this morning – and was reminded of one of my favorite things in summer. The smell of freshly cut grass. You can add a rain shower, freshly squeezed lemonade, and probably a few dozen other favorites to that list that you just needed to be reminded of by experiencing them. Which got me thinking of my favorite yoga poses – those that feel good on my body and I practice daily.

First one that came to mind was cat-cow pose. This pose increases flexibility of the neck, shoulders and spine; while stretching the muscles of the hips, back, abdomen and chest. It is a nice warm up for more advanced yoga poses, which is why I usually start my practice with the pose. Emotionally, the pose can help release anger, shame and addictive cravings by allowing energy to flow through the sacral chakra.

Another one I always start my practice with is ragdoll or dangling pose. This is just a variation of a standing forward bend but it feels so different on my body than just a forward fold. This pose stretches the ankles, calves, hamstrings and lower back, while releasing tension in the neck and shoulders. It can also calm the mind and helps relieve stress.

A pose I sometimes start and end my practice with is supine twist pose. This is a gentle pose with a lot of power. There are many modifications of this pose – so all can practice it. This pose promotes digestion and a healthy spine, and also opens and relaxes the chest, shoulders and upper back muscles. It also detoxifies internal organs and massages abdominal tissues.

We all have our favorites, so come join Satsanga Yoga and share your favorite poses.