Yoga Time! Our Favorite Yoga Positions

New to yoga? Wonder how to get started? No matter your age or fitness level, yoga is a great choice. Its broad appeal makes it ideal for newbies and advanced yogis alike. When practiced regularly, it improves joint mobility and flexibility, calms your mind, and relieves stress. In the long run, yoga may lower your risk of arthritis, type II diabetes, and heart disease. Its health benefits should be reason enough to give it a try.

Here are our top picks for the best yoga poses! Once you get started, you’ll be hooked!

Mountain Pose (Tadasana)

This basic asana gives you a sense of how to ground in to your feet. It’s the foundation of all standing postures. Mentally, it wards off stress and promotes relaxation. On a physical level, it improves your posture, builds lower body strength, and relieves back pain. Start your day with the mountain pose to have more energy and feel refreshed!

High Lunge (Alanasana)

Also known as the crescent lunge, this pose massages, stretches your legs and strengthens the spine. It also increases lung capacity and stimulates the internal organs. This makes it particularly beneficial for those with digestive issues, sciatica, and constipation. The high lunge will keep your digestive system running smoothly while toning your body from head to toe.

Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

Despite its apparent simplicity, the downward facing dog requires a lot of strength and balance. This asana calms and energizes your body at the same time. Moreover, it relieves bloating, opens up the airways, and strengthens your bones. Practitioners claim that it also eases PMS symptoms and mild depression.

Camel Pose (Ustrasana)

For increased energy and stamina, try the camel pose! This simple exercise wards off fatigue and anxiety, relieves menstrual discomfort, and eases back pain. It also strengthens the back muscles, which helps improve your posture and offsets the harmful effects of sitting for long hours.

Forearm Plank

Our list wouldn’t be complete without the plank. This foundational pose builds core strength and improves your balance. Over time, it tones your arms and legs, flattens your tummy, and increases joint flexibility. It’s also a great way to lift your mood and energize your body for the day ahead. The American Council on Exercise recommends the plank to those struggling with back pain.

Do you have a favorite yoga pose? If so, share it below!