Simple modifications to help yoga work for you

As I discussed in my last blog post, yoga has so many wonderful benefits! Many people, however, feel like they cannot participate in yoga due to pain or mobility limitations. I wanted to share some modifications of three common poses to show you how simple it can be to make yoga work for your body!

If you have specific poses you would like information on or want to book one on one yoga instruction personalized to your current fitness level or health condition, please feel free to send us a message!

Downward Facing Dog

Here we have three modifications of Downward Facing Dog.

1. The first is simply lowering your knees to the ground to reduce stress on the back of the legs and decrease the amount of weight through the arms while still achieving a wonderful stretch through the back body.

2. The second is a great option if you have difficulty getting onto the floor. You can achieve the same wonderful spine lengthening from a chair! Just place your arms on a desk or table.

3. The third variation is nice for those who are able to get on the floor but have significant tightness through the back of the legs. I encourage you to bend your knees generously and use a block, blankets, or other items you have at home to prop up your heels to further reduce stress on the legs.

Tree pose

Here we have two standing modifications for tree pose to help with balance difficulties

1. Keep your bent leg touching the floor slightly to help you balance

2. Hold onto a chair or other sturdy object. In this photo I am also keep my foot on the floor, but you can feel free to place your foot higher on your standing leg if you are able to!

Warrior poses

Here we have seated modifications for Warrior I, Warrior II, and Peaceful Warrior as well as a standing modification for Peaceful Warrior

1. For our first three modifications, you are getting into the leg and arm postures in sitting to have the support of the chair

2. For our standing modification, you can hold onto the chair with one hand to help with your balance

Whether you are living with a chronic neurologic condition, chronic pain, or simply have had difficulty moving your body the way you want to, yoga can be tailored to fit you! Helping people joy in moving is what we are passionate about here at Hope First! Let us know how we can help you achieve your goals during your free consultation.