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Yoga Seated
Poses
The succession of poses is important in yoga, as each preceding
pose prepares the body for the next level of intensity. The
seated poses work best when started with the Sukhasana,
a very easy pose that allows the body to adapt to the higher
demands of the following positions. Sitting in Sukhasana has
positive effects on the neck muscles, as well as the upper
spinal muscles. Try doing Pranayama and other exercises
such as neck or eye movements for improved coordination and
overall flexibility. Please make sure to warm up your body
before attempting these poses and do every movement in a gentle
and controlled manner, for best results.
Sukhasana is an excellent pose for meditation, helping yogis
maintain a straight spinal position that has positive effects
on posture even after the yoga exercise is over. The easy pose
offers serenity and a higher ability for introspection. The leg
position should alternate in this posture so that none of the
muscles get cramps. While on the floor and with your knees
bent, try to hold them with your arms while gently pulling them
towards the chest. After you feel the muscles being stretched
you can release your legs and cross them while your knees get
closer to the floor.
The next pose is the Virasana, also referred to as the
hero pose. The position is similar to the Cat pose, in the
sense that you are sitting on your knees with the thighs
parallel with one another. Slowly release pressure from your
hands until your hips are lowered to the floor. This may take
months to master and you should consider using a pillow or
folded blanket until you are comfortable doing it. The final
success of body flexibility in this pose is to be able to place
your buttocks on the floor without any support. During the
sitting process try to keep the spine straight by drawing the
abdomen inwards. In the Virasana the hands may rest on your
knees or thighs. When the optimal position is reached try to
sit still and, while closing your eyes, allow yourself to fall
into a stage of meditation.
The Paschimothanasana is another pose that takes a while
to master. Even though it might look facile, the pose needs
advanced back flexibility. In the Paschimothanasana the body
muscles are stretched for the head to the legs, making this
pose a complex one. This is one of the most beneficial asanas
as it massages internal organs and facilitates blood flow in
your body. The nervous system is well stimulated as well,
allowing you to develop better time responses and reflexes to
outside stimuli. The flexibility required by this position also
demands a healthy and fit body. When used in combination with
other yoga poses and a balanced diet, the Paschimothanasana
helps eliminate fat cells and increases the metabolism rate. A
deep breath before holding this pose will work well; exhale
while going out of the pose. The knees and spine should be kept
straight, for maximum stretch, even though it is tempting to
bring your head towards the knees.
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