Whether you’re just stepping foot on a yoga mat or you’ve been practicing for decades, yoga injuries are a real thing. Which is somewhat strange, since many people use yoga to heal and prevent injuries, right?
Modernized yoga practices are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the United States. While there is nothing wrong with this, it does mean that more and more people are using yoga as a physical exercise and only a physical exercise. They’re jumping into yoga studios and just as quickly into group classes where they push and push themselves to be and do better.
While it’s perfectly ok (and normal) to strive for mastering more advanced poses, there is so much more to yoga than asanas.
When we spend less and less time in the philosophy and lifestyle of yoga, we are more likely to get injured during our yoga practice.
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Ready to explore how to prevent yoga injuries? You might be surprised by what you find out!
Why do you practice yoga? Is it to bring harmony to your inner and outer worlds? Is it so you can become more self-aware? Maybe it’s because you’re working on becoming more physically fit, stronger, more flexible. These are all fantastic reasons to practice yoga!
Or are you practicing for other reasons:
To impress your teacher?
To make your partner/spouse happy?
To get approval, followers, or win favor on social media?
To prove to yourself you can “master” certain poses?
These reasons are unhealthy and come from your ego. There are others as well, but letting your ego lead your yoga practice can cause you to push your body in ways that are harmful, causing yoga injuries.
If you’re a runner, swimmer, cycler, athlete, you’re already training intensely. Probably almost every day. You’re putting a lot of strain on your body, which can cause a yoga injury if you’re not choosing the right practice for your lifestyle.
Muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints need a break sometimes, and yoga is a great way to actively rest and restore those parts of your body that need some TLC. If you’re very physically active or an athlete, your safest option is to practice a gentle form of yoga, such as yin yoga or Iyengar yoga to prevent injuries.
On the other hand, if you’re mostly sedentary, vinyasa yoga or modified ashtanga yoga might balance out your life. Even if you’re an experienced yoga practitioner.
Many people who practice yoga do so almost every day. Why? Because it feels good! But taking intense, long yoga classes can cause injury if you’re practicing 5-7 days a week.
A good way to avoid yoga injury is to mix up your yoga practice. If you do power yoga one day, try yin yoga the next. If you practice vinyasa yoga regularly, mix in an Iyengar yoga or hatha yoga practice to prevent injuries.
Practices that are too intense or done too often lead to overuse of muscles and joints, and that is counterproductive.
If it hurts, don’t do it. No matter how much you may want to push yourself, the “no pain, no gain” mentality is outdated and unhealthy. Yes, yoga can be uncomfortable at times. But there’s a big difference between discomfort and actual pain.
Listen to your body! Many yoga injuries occur because yogis are trying to master a certain pose before their body is ready. Preventing yoga injuries may mean you have to be more patient with yourself, modify, and/or use props until your body is ready to progress safely.
An excellent yoga teacher can also help you honor your body’s limitations.
While good alignment is key to preventing yoga injuries and protecting your joints, it’s easy to overuse the tendons and ligaments in your shoulder joints if you practice yoga often. Jump backs, Chaturanga, and planks can be very hard on your shoulders if done incorrectly or too often.
If you practice yoga every day, modify your practice by dropping your knees or skipping Chaturanga altogether sometimes to prevent injury to the shoulder joints.
Do you warm up before your yoga practice? Does your yoga teacher lead a thorough warm up? Warming up prevents yoga injuries, and if you’re not taking this important step in your yoga practice, it’s important to start!
A good warm up and good yoga alignment are two great ways to protect your lower back and hips during your yoga practice. Here are a few more:
Sit on a bolster or blocks for seated forward bends and twists
Only go as far as your body wants to go (don’t force it)
Keep your core engaged to protect your lower back
Balance flexibility with strength training for back and hip areas
While these tips are meant to guide you and help you and help you prevent yoga injuries, they are also meant to encourage you! You can accomplish your yoga goals safely.
One of the very best ways to grow in your yoga practice and prevent injury is to take classes with an experienced, highly qualified yoga teacher.
MyYogaTeacher offers 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:
42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!
Discounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!
Making new like-minded friends from around the world
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{"slug":"prevent-yoga-injuries","recentPosts":[{"id":"clgc1nu7j1uwk0birznqai3x1","slug":"10-yoga-poses-for-multiple-sclerosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"10 Yoga Poses to Enhance Wellness for Multiple Sclerosis Patients","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Learn about Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis and how it can help manage symptoms. Improve your quality of life with these yoga poses.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Discover yoga for multiple sclerosis - improve your quality of life with these poses.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-11T09:12:29.35505+00:00","coverUrl":"aydrjq4doquwuaot8kt7.jpg","content":{"text":"Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. While there is no cure for MS, practicing yoga can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Before starting a yoga practice, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.\\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nStress and Fatigue Reduction: Yoga provides a calming and relaxing effect on the body and mind, which can help ease the mental and physical stresses of MS. It can lead to a reduction in fatigue levels and promote a more peaceful state of mind.\\nImproved Balance and Coordination: MS can cause issues with balance and coordination, but yoga can help improve these areas. The practice of yoga involves movements that require balance and coordination, which can improve the function of the nervous system.\\nIncreased Flexibility and Strength: Yoga poses require the use of muscles that may not be utilized in everyday activities. Practicing yoga regularly can lead to increased flexibility and strength, which can improve overall fitness levels.\\nRespiratory Function Improvement: MS can affect respiratory function, but yoga can help improve breathing patterns. Certain yoga practices involve deep breathing exercises that can help increase lung capacity and oxygenation of the body.\\nPain Management: MS can cause pain and discomfort, but yoga can be an effective tool for managing these symptoms. The gentle movements of yoga can help relieve tension and tightness in the muscles, which can reduce pain and improve overall comfort.\\nImproved Overall Health and Well-Being: By providing a range of physical and mental benefits, yoga can improve overall health and well-being for individuals with MS. Regular practice can promote a sense of inner calm and peacefulness, which can positively impact all areas of life.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Multiple Sclerosis Symptom Management\\nSeated or chair yoga poses are ideal for individuals with limited mobility, while standing poses are suitable for those with greater mobility. Focus on poses that improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, such as:\\n\\n1.Child's Pose (Balasana): \\n\\nSit on your heels with your knees apart, and fold your torso forward, resting your forehead on the floor. Stretch your arms forward, palms facing down. Hold for 5-10 deep breaths.\\n\\n2.Cat-Cow (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): \\n\\nStart on your hands and knees, with your wrists under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Inhale and lift your chest and tailbone towards the ceiling (Cow pose), and exhale, rounding your spine towards the ceiling (Cat pose). Repeat for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n3.Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms out to the sides, and gaze over your right hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n4.Tree Pose (Vrksasana): \\n\\nStand with your feet hip-distance apart, and shift your weight onto your left foot. Place your right foot on your left thigh, and balance here. Place your hands in prayer position at your heart or extend your arms overhead. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5.Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): \\n\\nFrom a tabletop position, walk your hands forward and lift your hips up and back, forming an inverted V-shape with your body. Press your hands and feet into the ground and hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 45 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms overhead and gaze forward. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\n\\n7.Sphinx Pose (Salamba Bhujangasana): \\n\\nLie on your stomach with your elbows under your shoulders and forearms on the ground. Press into your forearms and lift your chest up, keeping your shoulders relaxed. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n8.Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-distance apart. Press into your feet and lift your hips up, keeping your arms and shoulders on the ground. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Triangle Pose (Trikonasana): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Extend your arms out to the sides and reach forward with your right hand, placing it on your shin or a block. Gaze up at your left hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n10.Corpse Pose (Savasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your arms and legs extended. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, allowing your body to fully relax. Stay here for at least 5-10 minutes.\\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nHere are some breathing and meditation practices that can be incorporated into a yoga practice for multiple sclerosis symptom management:\\n\nDeep Breathing: Sit comfortably and take deep, slow breaths through the nose, filling the lungs completely. Exhale slowly through the nose, releasing all the air. Repeat for several minutes.\\nAlternate Nostril Breathing: Sit comfortably and use the thumb to close one nostril while inhaling through the other. Then, use the ring finger to close the opposite nostril while exhaling through the first. Repeat for several minutes.\\nMindful Breathing: Focus on the sensation of the breath as it enters and leaves the body. If the mind wanders, gently bring the focus back to the breath.\\nBody Scan Meditation: Lie down or sit comfortably and bring attention to each part of the body, starting from the toes and moving up to the head. Notice any sensations or tensions and release them as you move through each part.\\n\\nConclusion\\nPracticing yoga can provide many benefits for individuals with multiple sclerosis, including reduced stress and fatigue, improved balance and coordination, and increased flexibility and strength. Incorporating yoga poses and practices into your routine can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider and find a qualified yoga teacher to begin a safe and effective practice."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg55sr3657wd0airoeszt66q","slug":"yoga-for-carpal-tunnel-syndrom","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Carpal Tunnel: Top 10 Yoga Poses, Benefits, FAQs","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms with yoga! Discover 10 poses to reduce pain and improve wrist and hand health. Learn best practices and protect yourself.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Relieve carpal tunnel with yoga! 10 poses to manage symptoms and improve wrist and hand health.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-06T13:33:53.820514+00:00","coverUrl":"fyzezortjqar8ovbd4vf.jpg","content":{"text":"Do you ever experience pain or tingling in your hands and fingers? It could be carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition that affects many people who use their hands and wrists frequently. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the median nerve in the wrist, which can lead to discomfort, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers.\\nFortunately, yoga can offer a natural and effective way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. In this article, we'll explore some yoga poses and practices that can help relieve pain and improve flexibility in the wrists and hands.\n\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nYoga has many benefits for overall health and wellness, and it can be particularly helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are just a few of the benefits:\\nReducing pain:\\n Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrist and hand, which can reduce pain and discomfort.\\nImproving flexibility: \\nTight muscles and tendons in the wrist and hand can exacerbate carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help improve flexibility and mobility.\\nReducing stress:\\n Stress and tension in the body can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.\n\\n\\nYoga Poses for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nYoga poses, or asanas, can be a powerful tool for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few poses to try:\\n\n\\n1.Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, reducing pain and stiffness. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and place your right foot on the floor, outside your left thigh. Bring your left heel toward your right buttock. Cross your left arm over your right arm and bring your palms together. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n2.Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. Start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Lift your hips up and back, straightening your arms and legs. Press your hands into the floor and lengthen through your spine. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\n\\n3.Garudasana (Eagle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help strengthen the muscles in the hands and wrists, which can improve grip strength and reduce pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides. Bring your right arm under your left arm, and bend both elbows to bring your palms together. Cross your right thigh over your left thigh. Balance on your left foot and hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n4.Utthita Trikonasana (Extended Triangle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, promoting flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet about 3-4 feet apart. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in slightly. Reach your right arm forward and hinge at your hip to reach your right hand toward your right shin or the floor. Extend your left arm straight up toward the ceiling. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n5.Padangusthasana (Big Toe Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for your big toes with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Marjariasana (Cat Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Exhale and round your spine, tucking your chin to your chest. Repeat for several breaths.\n\\n7.Bitilasana (Cow Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Hold for a breath or two, then return to neutral spine.\n\\n8.Matsyasana (Fish Pose):\\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the chest and shoulders, relieving tension in the upper body and reducing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. To perform this pose, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips and slide your hands, palms down, under your buttocks. Press your forearms and elbows into the floor and lift your chest. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose):\\n \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the inner thighs, hips, and groin, which can alleviate pressure on the wrists and hands. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with the soles of your feet together and your knees bent out to the sides. Hold your ankles or feet with your hands and gently press your knees down toward the floor. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n10\\n.\\nUttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)\\n: \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for the floor with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths. If you have difficulty reaching the floor, you can place your hands on blocks or a chair seat.\n\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nIn addition to yoga poses, breathing exercises and meditation can be helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few practices to try:\\nDeep Breathing:\\n Taking slow, deep breaths can help reduce stress and tension in the body, which can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nGuided Meditation:\\n Guided meditations can help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can in turn reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nVisualization:\\n Visualizing the body healing and repairing itself can help reduce pain and promote healing in the wrists and hands.\n\\n\\nTips for Practicing Yoga with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nWhen practicing yoga with carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to listen to your body and modify your practice as needed. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:\\nUse Props\\n: Props like blocks or straps can help make poses more accessible and comfortable.\\nModify Poses\\n: If a pose is too painful or uncomfortable, modify it or skip it altogether.\\nBe Mindful\\n: Pay attention to your body and how it feels during your practice. If a certain pose or practice is causing pain or discomfort, stop and modify or skip it.\\n\\nConclusion:\\nManaging carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms can be a challenge, but incorporating yoga into your routine can be a natural and effective way to find relief. By practicing yoga poses, breathing exercises, and meditation regularly, you can improve flexibility, reduce pain, and promote relaxation in your wrists and hands. Give it a try and see how yoga can benefit your carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms today!\n\n\\nFrequently Asked Questions about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\n\\nQ1. How can yoga help people with carpal tunnel syndrome?\\nAns: \\nYoga is a great way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms! Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrists, hands, and arms, which can relieve pressure on the median nerve and reduce symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling. Plus, practicing yoga can help reduce inflammation, increase flexibility, and improve circulation in the affected area.\\n\\nQ2. What yoga poses should you avoid with carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to avoid yoga poses that put too much pressure on the wrists or require excessive bending or flexing of the hands. Poses like Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose), and Plank Pose can worsen carpal tunnel symptoms and should be avoided. Instead, focus on poses that gently stretch and strengthen the wrists and hands.\n\\nQ3.What are the best practices for carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n In addition to practicing yoga, there are several other best practices for managing carpal tunnel syndrome. These include taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks that strain the wrists and hands, using ergonomic tools and equipment to reduce strain, maintaining good posture, and engaging in regular exercise and stretching to promote overall health and flexibility. It's important to take care of yourself both on and off the mat!\n\\nQ4.How can you protect yourself from carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Using ergonomic tools and equipment, taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks, and maintaining good posture can all help reduce your risk. Engaging in regular exercise and stretching can also help keep your hands and wrists healthy and flexible. Remember to listen to your body and take action if you notice any symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands or wrists. A healthcare provider can help diagnose and treat any issues before they become more serious."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg3manw0c2300bk8q089x7gd","slug":"yoga-for-improved-mobility","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Top 10 Yoga Poses for Improved Mobility: Unlock Your Body's Potential","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga is an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn about the best yoga poses for improving your mobility.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-05T11:40:10.955124+00:00","coverUrl":"mo0n5st8ek3dj2p0m8ib.jpg","content":{"text":"We know that yoga can help elevate your mental and emotional wellbeing, but it’s actually an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.\\nWhat do we mean by mobility, and why is it important? Mobility refers to the level of ease with which you can move your body. This affects your ability to walk, run, lift, and engage in physical activities like sports, dancing, or just playing in the backyard with your kids or grandkids. Your level of mobility directly translates to your overall well-being, and it can greatly influence whether or not you experience chronic pain.\\n\\nHow Yoga Improves Mobility?\\nA typical yoga practice includes performing a holistic routine of stretches that work to improve your flexibility, balance, and strength — which all directly impact your mobility. Let’s break down how each of those factors work.\\nFlexibility refers to the range of motion between your joints and muscles, and an inflexible body is rigid, stiff, and achy, with a relatively small range of motion. A regular yoga routine can help lengthen and strengthen your muscles, improving your range of motion while preventing injury and reducing your risk for chronic pain. Along with increasing mobility, improving your flexibility also puts less strain on your body overall.\\nBuilding strength is crucial to achieve better mobility, since stronger muscles give you better stability, balance, and control over your movements. Yoga targets muscle groups and makes them stronger, more toned, and more capable of increased movement with more control. Increasing strength also helps prevent injury, improves your sense of balance, and reduces your risk for issues later in life – like osteoporosis.\\nIt may be surprising to learn that yogic breathing can also help improve your mobility. By calming your mind, improving your awareness, and relaxing your body, you can build a greater connection with your physical self and reduce tension. This can lead to an increase in your range of motion and a better understanding of your personal limitations.\\nThe best part about yoga is that it's low impact, and it's approachable for everyone. It doesn’t matter how old you are, or whether or not you’re a beginner. You can start out with slow, gentle movements that can greatly improve your mobility without the risk of injury. You can also practice yoga in the comfort of your own home, by following the sequence below or working with one of the many qualified yoga instructors available here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Better Mobility\\nTo get started practicing yoga for improved physical mobility, try performing the poses below several times per week over an extended period of time. \\n1.Sun Salutations\\n\\nStart at the top of your mat in Mountain pose, with your hands in prayer position. With flowing, dynamic movement, progress through the following postures 3 or more times:\\nUpward Salute\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nLow Lunge (left foot forward)\\nPlank\\nFour-Limbed Staff pose\\nUpward Facing Dog or Cobra\\nDownward Facing Dog\\nLow Lunge (right foot forward)\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nUpward Salute\\nReturn to Mountain pose\\nRepeat\\n\\n2. Chair Pose\\n\\nStand in Mountain pose at the top of your mat, with your hands at your sides and feet hip distance apart. As you inhale, raise your hands over your head, with your arms parallel with your ears. As you exhale, hinge slightly at your waist, bend your knees and lower your torso forward as if you were about to sit down in a chair. Keep your core engaged and your spine straight while you hold this posture for several breaths.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position, with your hands and knees on your mat. Push up from your hands and knees, lifting your hips until you are balanced on your hands and feet, with your body resembling an inverted “v.” Keep your head in between your arms, ears balanced over your shoulders, and stay in this pose for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Low Lunge\\n\\nFrom your position in Downward Dog, you can easily transition to Low Lunge by bringing your left foot forward and bending your left leg at the knee. With your right leg behind you, gently kneel on your right knee. Inhale as you reach your arms up over your head, parallel with your ears. Expand your chest, lengthen your spine, keep your chin level and your gaze focused forward in front of you.\\n\\n5. Plank\\n\\nLie face down on your mat, and using your palms to push up from the floor, lift your body until you are balanced on your palms and the toes of your feet. In this pose, your body should be positioned in a straight line, with your gaze directed at the floor in front of you. Hold for a few breaths, or for 30-60 seconds if you are feeling strong in this pose.\\n\\n6. Cobra Pose\\n\\nStart by laying with your stomach facing down on the floor, with your legs straight and your arms folded under your head. Place your palms on the mat parallel to your chest. Slightly lift your head off the mat, keeping your head and back aligned, and press your thighs together. Now, steadily pull your elbows towards your rib cage keeping your hands underneath your shoulders. With a deep inhale, press your hands into the mat, curl your shoulders backward, and lift your upper body off the mat, arching your back. Hold this position for a few breaths and then rest.\\n\\n7. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n8. Bow Pose\\n\\nLie down on your stomach with your forehead against the mat and your hands resting at your sides. Inhale and engage your core, slightly lifting your torso up, bending your legs and grabbing your ankles with each hand. Open your chest and lift your chin, so that your gaze is facing forward. Maintain a steady breath while holding this pose, allowing your body to gently rock back and forth with each inhale and exhale. Release after 20-30 seconds.\\n\\n9. Bridge Pose\\n\\nStart by lying on your back with your knees bent. On your next exhale, tuck your chin and lift your hips, being careful not to allow your knees to splay outward. Interlace your fingers on the floor underneath you and lift your hips higher, while staying in the pose for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n10. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes.\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"clg0gw3o0ycc30ak0rlfm4ea9","slug":"yoga-for-endometriosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Endometriosis: 6 Easy Poses to Try at Home","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga can help ease symptoms of endometriosis, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with the condition.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best yoga poses for endometriosis symptoms.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:45:34.990165+00:00","coverUrl":"htglzgglkwtr6is6mzmi.jpg","content":{"text":"Endometriosis is a disorder that affects about 190 million women worldwide, causing painful periods, infertility, and other severe symptoms that can significantly reduce the overall quality of their lives. While science is still working to fully understand endometriosis, right now there are a few ways in which women can manage the symptoms of this painful condition, including medication, surgery and various forms of therapy. Yoga can also help ease symptoms, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with endometriosis.\\nYoga helps reduce the troubling symptoms of endometriosis in a few different ways. The overall practice of yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for operating the body's relaxation and digestive responses. These responses tell your body to slow down and rest, which are crucial when it comes to reducing the pain, anxiety, and stress that comes with endometriosis.\\nYoga also enhances blood flow to your reproductive organs, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Yoga poses work to stretch the muscles and tissues around your uterus and ovaries, which can help reduce the intensity and duration of menstrual cramps. Endometriosis commonly causes intense chronic pain in the pelvis, lower back, and hips, which yoga can help alleviate through gentle stretches and movement that help open up and relax the muscles in these areas.\\nEndometriosis can also cause infertility due to scarring around the reproductive organs, but yoga can help offset this issue by increasing blood flow to the area and lowering inflammation. Yoga also works to balance your hormones by reducing cortisol and other stress hormones and regulating your menstrual cycle.\\nIn terms of mental health, yoga is one of the most effective tools in managing anxiety and depression, which are common symptoms of endometriosis. This condition can cause immense chronic pain, which typically results in emotional distress that yoga can help alleviate. Yoga sends signals to your mind and body that encourage both to relax, reducing tension, calming anxious thoughts, and improving your sense of well-being.\\n\\nWhat Types of Yoga are Best for Endometriosis?\\nThere are many different kinds of yoga, but if you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis you may want to stick with gentle postures like those you would perform in Hatha, Restorative, Gentle, or Yin yoga. These types of yoga focus on easy, low-impact movement, along with relaxation and stress reduction, and they typically involve some type of yogic breath work – which can also help reduce inflammation and chronic pain.\\nIf you’re considering yoga for managing your symptoms of endometriosis, there are certain precautions you should take in order to avoid making those symptoms worse. While you’re on your period, it’s important to avoid inverted postures that might interrupt or change your body’s natural flow. If a specific posture causes pain or discomfort, exit the pose immediately and take a break. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid any kind of position that doesn’t feel good. If you’re unsure about your alignment or you’d like some guidance on how to practice yoga for endometriosis, you can enroll in an online class or book a private session with one of the instructors here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\n\\n6 Easy Yoga Poses for Endometriosis\\nIf you’re experiencing the painful symptoms of endometriosis, try the gentle poses below for some relief.\\n1.Child’s Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n2. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n3. Fixed Angle Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat with your knees bent and the soles of your feet pressed against each other. With your spine straight, press your hands behind you and gently open up your chest and tuck in your abdomen. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n4. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nSit in the center of your mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Take a deep inhale and raise your arms directly over your head. As you exhale, slowly lean forward and place your head and chest on top of your legs, and grab your big toes with both of your hands. Tuck your chin and curl abdomen, relaxing your lower back as you sink into this pose. Hold for one minute.\\n\\n5. Supine Twist Pose\\n\\nLie on the floor with your knees bent and bring them to your chest. Slowly and mindfully drop your left side while extending your arms outward in a “t” shape. Hold this pose for about 30 seconds while breathing mindfully. Bring your knees back to your chest, and then repeat on your right side.\\n\\n6. Legs Up The Wall Pose\\n\\nPlace a folded blanket parallel against a wall. Sit sideways in the middle of the blanket, and turn yourself toward the wall, lifting your legs up and propping them against the wall. Lay back comfortably, rest your head and neck on the floor, and fully straighten your legs. Spread your arms out to your sides with your palms facing up. Allow your chest, abdomen, and pelvis to completely relax. Breathe evenly and mindfully while holding this pose for 5-8 minutes.\\n\\nPranayama for Endometriosis\\nYogic breath work can help ease feelings of stress and anxiety, while giving you tools with which to manage pain. Try these breathing exercises to encourage a sense of calm and relaxation.\\n1.Nadi Sodhana or “Alternate Nostril Breathing”\\nExhale completely, and then place your right index finger onto your right nostril, and breathe deeply in through the left. Alternate and place your thumb over your left nostril, and exhale through your right. Continue alternating, repeating at least 10 times.\\n\\n2. Ujjayi or Ocean’s Breath\\nStart by breathing in through your mouth. As you exhale, pull in your chin in toward your body and so that your throat is partly constricted. Then, breathe in and out through your nose, making a slight sound that is similar to the ocean.\\n"},"category":["yoga_poses"]},{"id":"clg0fojrzxeqr0biq6yvfzdjk","slug":"yoga-for-acid-reflux","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga and Digestion: 8 Poses to Help Ease Acid Reflux Symptoms","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga helps alleviate symptoms of acid reflux and prevent onset by reducing stress and anxiety, activating your digestive system, and improving your posture.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best poses for reducing acid reflux.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:11:42.97583+00:00","coverUrl":"ckauzlgegiwd249grkhg.jpg","content":{"text":"If you experience acid reflux on a regular basis, then you’re already familiar with how it typically unfolds. It often starts with a burning sensation in your chest and the repeated urge to burp and let go of accumulated gas. There are lots of reasons why acid reflux occurs, including a number of lifestyle factors like poor diet and emotional stress. Thankfully, yoga can help manage symptoms and reduce episodes if they are stress-related. \\n\\nHow Yoga Helps with Acid Reflux\\nOne of the ways that yoga helps reduce acid reflux is by reducing stress and anxiety. These are the common culprits for acid reflux, because they cause your body to engage in a cascade of fight/flight/freeze responses that includes increased production of stomach acid. By reducing your stress and anxiety, you can help your body avoid switching on that fight/flight/freeze response.\\nAnother way that yoga can reduce acid reflux is through improving your posture and alignment. Poor posture can contribute to chronic acid reflux by placing too much pressure on your stomach and esophagus. Yoga postures that correct your alignment — like Downward Facing Dog and Standing Forward Fold — help relieve this pressure and prevent the onset of acid reflux. It’s important to note that in order to truly improve your posture, you need to practice these poses regularly and for the long term – over time they can help reduce your risk of developing acid reflux in the first place.\\nYoga can also help regulate your digestive system, which is another factor that contributes to acidity. When food gets stuck in your digestive tract, it can cause gas and bloating, slowing your entire digestive system down, which eventually manifests in your stomach with an acidic reaction. By stimulating your digestive system, you can help your body move and process food smoothly through your digestive tract without gas, bloating, or acidity.\\nOne of the most important ways yoga can help prevent acid reflux is by strengthening your diaphragm, which is the muscle that prevents acid from moving up into your esophagus. When the diaphragm is weak or tense, it can actually allow acid reflux to rise up from your stomach and push its way into your esophagus, which is what causes that uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest. Yoga postures that promote diaphragmatic breathing, such as Seated Forward Fold and Corpse pose can help strengthen this muscle and prevent acid reflux.\n\\n\\n8 Effective Yoga Poses for Acid Reflux\\nIn order to get the most benefit from practicing yoga for acid reflux, it’s recommended that you develop a regular routine that involves performing yoga at least 3-4 times per week for 6-9 months. This isn’t a quick fix, but with a long term commitment you can reduce the onset of acid reflux and improve your overall quality of life.\\nThe poses below are basic, primary yoga poses you can practice in your very own home. If you’re unsure how to practice the postures, or you’d like some professional guidance, try working with one of our certified yoga instructors at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n1.Mountain Pose\\n\\nStart by standing at the top of your mat with your feet hip distance apart. Balance your weight evenly on both feet. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides, with your spine straight and your chest lifted. Your gaze should be focused straight ahead of you while you breathe easily and gently. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\n\\n2. Standing Forward Fold\\n\\nStand at the front of your mat, feet hip distance apart. Exhale and bend forward from the waist, with your knees slightly bent and touching your hands to the floor in front of your feet. Inhale and exhale, allowing your torso to extend without rounding your back. Lengthen and soften your neck, and let the muscles of your thighs and lower back open and release any built-up tension. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nWith your hands and knees on the floor, push your hips upward until you are balancing on your hands and feet, and your body resembles an inverted “v” shape. Reach your heels toward the floor, stretching your hamstrings and activating your thighs. Keep your head between your arms, lengthening your side-body as you stretch. Stay here for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Seated Spinal Twist Pose\\n\\nSitting with your knees bent and your feet tucked in next to your left butt cheek, inhale with your spine straight, lifting your chest. As you exhale, rotate your torso to your right. Position your right hand on the floor just slightly behind you, and rest your left hand on your right knee. On your next breath, rotate a little more as you exhale, turning your head to look over your right shoulder. Hold this pose for 20 to 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n6. Child’s pose Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n7. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nStart by sitting on your yoga mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Come onto your sit bones and inhale with a straight spine. Raise your arms over your head and as you exhale, begin to bend forward by hinging at your waist. Slowly lower your torso toward the tops of your legs, allowing your spine to curve forward as you reach your legs. Hold this pose for 30-60 seconds.\\n\\n8. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes."},"category":["yoga_poses"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"ckkss4i6g11qk0a81swms978n","slug":"clear-your-chakras","author":{"name":"Abhishek Sharma","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"Beginner's Guide to Clearing Chakras | Benefits, Healing & Chanting Chakras","createdAt":"2021-02-05T21:07:01.067503+00:00","coverUrl":"clear-your-chakras_72106447.png","content":{"text":"Maybe you don’t expect to see a chakra clearing session mixed in with yoga classes. The western part of the world tends to be more focused on outward results, and you do yoga because that’s what you want. Results.\\nStrength. Flexibility. Toning. Gentle exercise for an injured or unconditioned body.\\nAnd you know nothing of chakras or chanting or all that other “woo woo” stuff.\\nThe truth is, yoga, chakra clearing, and chanting work together to create harmony with your inner and outer world. They are all forms of meditation!\\n\\nIf you’re new to the woo, then this post will be helpful in understanding why I offer a \\nChakras and Sound Healing class \\nthrough MyYogaTeacher.\\n\\nWhat are Chakras?\\nChakras are energy points in your body that correspond to organs, nerves, and areas of our body that affect our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. We are all made up of energy! Everything is made of energy.\\nSo it is no surprise that energy flows through and around us.\\nWhen your chakras or energy centers are off balance or blocked, you may experience negative emotional or physical symptoms related to a particular chakra.\\n\\nThe 7 Important Types Of Chakras:\\n\\n1. Root chakra (Muladhara): \\n Responsible for your sense of security, stability, and safety.\\n2. Sacral chakra (Svadhisthana):\\n Responsible for sexual and creative energy and linked to how you relate to and connect with others.\\n3. Solar plexus chakra (Manipura):\\n Corresponds to confidence, self-esteem, and helps you feel in control of your life.\\n4. Heart chakra (Anahata):\\n All about our ability to love and show compassion.\\n5. Throat chakra (Vishuddha):\\n Has to do with how we communicate verbally.\\n6. Third eye chakra (Ajna):\\n Linked to intuition and imagination.\\n7. Crown chakra (Sahasrara):\\n Represents your spiritual connection to self, others, and the Universe/God. Also linked to your life’s purpose.\\n\\nHow do you know if you have one or many – or any – blocked chakras? And what does clearing them even mean? Or do?\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nClear Your Chakras and Improve Your Life.\\n\\nHaving balanced chakras (or imbalanced ones) impacts all areas of your life. Chakras are receptors and emitters. They receive and give back energy. You will receive the same frequency of energy back from the world that you emit.\\nAn easily relatable example of this is when you constantly see the negative attributes in someone’s character. The more you talk, think, and explore those negative things, the more you will find. This also works in reverse. When we love someone, we choose to see all the good things in them, which leads us to find more good things. \\nWhen you feel poor, you often act poor. So you receive more of the same. When you are unkind, you are often met with unkindness.\\n\\nThis is energy. Chakra energy.\\n\\nHow to Identify Blocked Chakras :\\n\\n1. Root chakra:\\n Stress about money, digestive issues, arthritis, problems in the legs, feet, tailbone or rectum, prostate issues.\\n2. Sacral chakra:\\n Constant fear of betrayal, sexual or reproductive health issues, hip or lower back pain, urinary or kidney dysfunction.\\n3. Solar plexus chakra:\\n Fear of rejection, digestive issues, chronic fatigue, pancreas or gallbladder problems.\\n4. Heart chakra: \\nFear of being alone, asthma, arm and wrist pain, jealousy or bitterness, upper back or shoulder problems.\\n5. Throat chakra: \\nFear being out of control, thyroid issues, sore throats, ear infections, trouble expressing yourself, neck and shoulder pain.\\n6. Third eye chakra:\\n Moodiness or stubbornness, blurry vision or eye problems, sinus issues, headaches.\\n7. Crown chakra: \\nFear of alienation, rigid thoughts, analysis paralysis.\\n\\nRegularly clearing your chakras through a guided chakra clearing session or by visiting an energy healer will help alleviate many of these symptoms.\\n\\nAnd don’t rule it out as a part of your regular yoga routine!\\n\\nStep-by-Step Beginner's Guide to Clear Chakras :\n\\nChakras are energy centers in your body that are believed to be responsible for different aspects of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By clearing these energy centers, you can remove blockages that may be preventing you from feeling your best. Here's how to get started:\\n\\nStep 1: Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. It's important to be able to focus your attention on your body and your breath without distractions.\\n\\nStep 2: Take a few deep breaths and close your eyes. Allow yourself to settle into the present moment and let go of any worries or distractions that may be on your mind.\\n\\nStep 3: Start with the root chakra, located at the base of your spine. Visualize a red ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire pelvic area. As you focus on this visualization, repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am safe and secure.\"\\n\\nStep 4: Move up to the sacral chakra, located just below your navel. Visualize an orange ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire lower abdomen. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am creative and passionate.\"\\n\\nStep 5: Next, focus on the solar plexus chakra, located just above your navel. Visualize a yellow ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire upper abdomen. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am confident and empowered.\"\\n\\nStep 6: Move up to the heart chakra, located in the center of your chest. Visualize a green ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire chest. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am loved and loving.\"\\n\\nStep 7: Next, focus on the throat chakra, located at the base of your throat. Visualize a blue ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire throat area. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am honest and expressive.\"\\n\\nStep 8: Move up to the third eye chakra, located in the center of your forehead. Visualize an indigo ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire head. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am intuitive and aware.\"\\n\\nStep 9: Finally, focus on the crown chakra, located at the top of your head. Visualize a violet ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire body. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am connected and at peace.\"\\n\\nStep 10: Take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to sit in this state for a few minutes. When you're ready, slowly open your eyes and come back to the present moment.\\n\\nCongratulations, you've just completed a chakra clearing exercise! With regular practice, this can be a powerful tool for enhancing your overall well-being. Remember to stay patient with yourself and enjoy the process.\\n\\nMeditation for Clearing Chakras\\n\\nMeditation is a powerful tool that can be used to clear your chakras and bring your mind and body into a state of balance and harmony. By focusing your attention on your breath and your energy centers, you can release blockages and allow energy to flow freely throughout your body.You may not feel comfortable chanting at the end of your yoga practice. Might want to check on your throat chakra about that (jk)!\\nOr maybe it’s just unfamiliar to you. Why do we do it? What’s the point? \\nSound healing is real. \\nThe practice of using vibrations in order to relax and heal the body has been scientifically proven to be effective.\\nTraditionally, the chanting of “Om” (pronounced “AUM”) happens at the beginning and end of a yoga or meditation session. The letters AUM symbolize the divine energy of Shakti. Shakti is referred to as the “Great Divine Mother” in Hinduism. \\nThe three main characteristics of Shakti are creation, preservation, and liberation.\\nThe sound Om, when done correctly, vibrates at a frequency of 432 Hz, the same frequency as everything throughout nature. It’s a universal sound that helps us connect with ourselves and everything around us.\\nChanting not only helps us open and close our practice, separating it from the rest of our day. It also helps slow down the nervous system and calm the mind.\\nJust as chanting helps calm the mind and connect and ground us to the present, “Namaste” shows respect and reverence for the experience, the Universe, and the other people around you.\\nIt may seem weird to you, but think of it as a handshake of gratitude to your body, your instructor, and the planet that supports you both.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nHow do you Chant Chakras?\\n\\nChanting is a powerful way to activate and balance your chakras. The vibration of the sound can help to clear blockages and promote the flow of energy through your energy centers. Here's how to get started with chanting your chakras:\\n\\nChoose a chant that resonates with you: There are many different chants and mantras that can be used to activate and balance your chakras. Explore different options and find one that resonates with you. .\\nFind a comfortable and quiet space: Choose a quiet and comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. This can be a room in your house, a quiet outdoor space, or anywhere else that feels calming and peaceful to you.\\nFocus your attention on the specific chakra you want to activate: Each chakra has its own unique sound and vibration. As you chant, focus your attention on the specific chakra you want to activate. For example, if you're working on your heart chakra, you might focus on the sound \"YAM.\"\\nUse deep, intentional breathing: As you chant, use deep and intentional breathing to help you connect with your body and your energy centers. Breathe in slowly and deeply, and exhale slowly and fully.\\nRepeat the chant as many times as you like: You can repeat the chant as many times as you like, whether that's for a few minutes or for an extended period of time. The important thing is to stay focused and present, and to allow the sound of the chant to help you connect with your chakras and promote the flow of energy through your body.\\nFAQs about Clearing Chakras\\n\\nAre chakras scientifically proven? \\nWhile the existence of chakras is not widely accepted within the scientific community, there are studies that have explored the connection between the body's energy centers and overall health and well-being.\\n\\nHow do chakras relate to life purpose? \\nAccording to some spiritual teachings, each chakra is associated with a specific aspect of life and can provide insight into one's life purpose. For example, the heart chakra is associated with love and compassion, while the throat chakra is associated with communication and self-expression.\\n\\nHow often should you clear your chakras? \\nThere is no set schedule for clearing your chakras, but many people find it helpful to do so on a regular basis. You might choose to clear your chakras daily, weekly, or whenever you feel like your energy needs a boost.\\n\\nHow to heal chakras? \\nThere are many different techniques that can be used to heal and balance your chakras. Some popular options include meditation, yoga, energy healing, and sound therapy.\\n\\nWhy does my solar plexus feel weird? \\nThe solar plexus is associated with personal power and self-confidence. If you're feeling a strange sensation in this area, it could be a sign that your solar plexus chakra is out of balance. Consider exploring techniques to balance this energy center, such as practicing self-empowerment or visualizing a ball of bright yellow light in this area.\\n\\nWhat is the chakra for digestion?\\n \\nThe third chakra, located in the solar plexus region, is associated with digestion and metabolism. A balanced solar plexus chakra can help promote healthy digestion and a strong metabolism, while an imbalanced chakra can lead to digestive issues and low energy levels. Techniques such as yoga and meditation can help to balance this energy center and promote digestive health.\\n\\n\\nI encourage you to challenge yourself to a\\n Chakra and Sound Healing session\\n. Feel the difference in your heart, mind, and body afterwards. Pay attention to how it makes you feel. Do any parts of your body ache or hurt less? Is your mind more calm and focused? Do you feel more connected to yourself and nature?\\nThese are some of the benefits you may experience!\\nNot sure about it just yet? \\nmyYogaTeacher offers a 2-week free trial\\n where you have access to my class and many more! Group yoga, meditation, sound healing, and chakra clearing classes from the comfort of your own home. \\nAll are welcome here!"}},{"id":"ckk6ysenk21uj0a76z1142rgu","slug":"yoga-for-sore-muscles","author":{"name":"My Yoga Teacher","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"Best Beginner Yoga Poses for Sore Muscles: Feel Better Fast","createdAt":"2021-01-21T14:42:38.534163+00:00","coverUrl":"istockphoto-1158604393-612x612.jpg","content":{"text":"You hurt. Bad.\\n\\nSitting is a struggle. Standing isn’t any better. Lying down is...tolerable.\\n\\nUltimately, everything just hurts.\\n\\nMaybe you overdid it at the gym. Maybe you haven’t worked out in a while and you decided to jump back into it. You know, full steam ahead. Or it could be you tried something new, and you used muscles you haven’t been using on the regular during your workouts.\\n\\nWhatever the case, recovery yoga is your new best friend! Yoga is the perfect sweet relief for sore muscles. Especially if you’re a beginner.\\n\\nAdding yoga for muscle recovery to your workout routine helps your body bounce back from the intense stress of hardcore workouts and helps to prevent injury.\\n\\nCheck out some of these muscle recovery yoga poses when you just need a break from those achy muscles.\\n\\n1. Pigeon Pose\\nThis pose helps release soreness in your hips and lower back by stretching out your hips, glutes, and even your outer quadricep.\\n\\nIf you need quick relief in those areas, this is the pose for you! Here are some tips for correctly practicing this pose:\\n\\n1. Keep your hips square.\\n2. Rotate your rear leg to neutral position (not turned out).\\n3. Don’t collapse onto the hip of your front bent leg.\\n4. Use padding underneath your hip if necessary.\\n5. Avoid this pose if you have knee or hip issues.\\n\\nThis pose can be intense but in a good way! However, there should be no pain.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n2. Reclined Strap Stretches\\n\\nRelease the beast that is tight, sore hamstrings and inner and outer thighs. Use this muscle recovery yoga pose right after an intense workout or the next day...or both!\\n\\nJust lie on your back, legs straight out, and bend one knee into your chest. Wrap your strap around the ball of your foot. Straighten your leg while holding both ends of the strap. Pull the strap straight back, right and then left, gently releasing the muscles in your inner and outer thighs, and hamstrings. Don’t forget to breathe!\\n\\nTips for success with this pose:\\n\\n1. Keep both feet flexed.\\n2. Keep both hips firmly planted on the floor.\\n3. The straight leg on the mat should remain in neutral position, not turned out.\\n4. Don’t overstretch! Modify as needed for comfort.\\n\\nRunners often use yoga for recovery of calves, hamstrings, and even lower back pain. This pose is perfect for all of those!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n3. Reclined Twist\\n\\nThis pose is the best for relieving lower back pain. With proper technique, the reclined twist contributes to a healthy spine and also releases tight hip muscles.\\n\\nBegin by lying flat on your back. Bring your knees to your chest and stretch your arms out in a T, palms up facing the ceiling. Inhale and release your knees over to one side as you exhale. Lengthen your spine down towards the ground. Press your shoulder blades down towards the floor. Hold this pose on each side for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\nIf the pose is too intense using both legs, try extending one leg out and down towards (or onto the floor). Or, if your bottom knee doesn’t reach the ground, try putting a block or blanket underneath it for support.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n4. Straight Legged Forward Bend\\n\\nThe best yoga for muscle recovery isn’t always complicated. A simple forward bend stretches everything from your Achilles tendon all the way up to your cervical spine.\\n\\nThe best stretch from this pose comes when you relax and “dangle”. Let your head drop. Breathe. Just let everything go!\\n\\nNo need to worry about keeping your legs perfectly straight. Feel free to rest your hands wherever you feel comfortable; thighs, shins, or the floor. You can also use a block.\\n\\nJust make sure your weight rests in the balls of your feet, not back on your heels!\\n\\n\\n5. Child’s Pose\\n\\nThere’s a reason why this is a common pose practiced at the beginning, end and even in the middle of many yoga practices.\\n\\nIt’s restful and easy while stretching out your upper and lower back, arms, and hips. It’s also good for digestion. But then again, all of these poses are!\\n\\nRest easy, friend, your muscles deserve a break! Spend some time in this pose just breathing, relaxing, and deepening your stretch.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nAs a matter of fact, it’s a good practice to hold each of these poses for 5-10 breaths, or longer if you can handle it. A common muscle recovery yoga practice is called yin yoga. A slow yoga practice where each pose is held for longer periods of time, sometimes up to 5 minutes each.\\n\\nIf you love holding these poses and feeling the exhilarating relief from your tired sore muscles, check out MyYogaTeacher’s \\nBeginner\\n class for free with your two week trial!\\n\\nOr if back pain is the source of your woes, we are offering a Yoga for Back Pain program now! You can click here and sign up for more information!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n"}},{"id":"ckz7ga2283v6i0b81t5mhp1b4","slug":"yoga-poses-against-wall","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"How Using a Wall in Your Yin Yoga Practice Can Give You Unparalleled Release","createdAt":"2022-02-03T20:47:50.859672+00:00","coverUrl":"zlf5j1vaur5u2tfqkc90.jpg","content":{"text":"Some days you’re energetic and motivated to move your body, but some days you’re not! Some days you feel so sore that wiggling your feet hurts. And some days, maybe you just. can’t. \\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we understand all of those types of days. They just mean we’re all human!\\nThe good news is there’s a yoga for that. If you know us at all, you know that we want to make sure that anyone and everyone who wants to practice yoga feels comfortable doing so. No matter what kind of day they’re having.\\nUsing props in yoga is nothing new. Especially yin yoga! You should always feel comfortable using a yoga prop if needed. But so many yogis underestimate the power of using a wall as a prop!\\nMaking use of a wall in yin yoga has major physical and mental health benefits, but it also allows you to do something good for your body on days when you’re just not feelin’ it. As a matter of fact, when you’re sore or unmotivated (or both), using a wall for some relaxing yin yoga is probably just what your mind and body need!\\nMyYogaTeacher is excited to offer so many different types of yoga classes to meet the needs of our community of yogis! Yin yoga is just one of them. \\nAnd\\n it’s offered at various times on different days so you can find a time that works best for you to try it out! Plus, we have several expert yoga instructors who teach yin yoga. You get to choose which one you like best!\\nIf you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\n\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n\\nMeanwhile, let’s talk about how using a wall – the prop everyone has at home – for your yin yoga practice provides unprecedented relief from tight, sore muscles, headaches, and many other things!\\n\\n\\n\\n1. Feet up a wall pose\\nSeems pretty basic right? Lying down and propping your feet and legs up against a wall. Maybe so, but the benefits of feet up a wall pose are tremendous, especially if you decided to hold it for longer periods of time.\\nIn this pose, you get a good hamstring stretch and release the muscles in your lower back. This inverted pose is passive and helps you melt into the floor as you let go of stress anxiety. \\nFeet up a wall pose also:\\n\\nReduces swelling in the feet and legs\\nRelieves migraine headache pain\\nHelps manage varicose veins\\nImproves thyroid function\\nPromotes better circulation\\nHelps you sleep better\\nImproves digestion\\nThat’s a lot for a yoga pose where you get to lay down and relax, right? Inverted poses are also wonderful for promoting lymph flow, which is important for immunity, amongst other things.\\nSee? Basic isn’t always bad!\\n\\n\\n\\n2. Butterfly pose on a wall\\nWhen sitting up is just too much or too hard on your back and knees, you can get the same benefits of this pose lying down!\\nFrom feet up a wall pose, bring the soles of your feet together and bend your knees out to the sides as you slide your feet down the wall. You may like to have a folded blanket, mat, or bolster handy to place under your hips if you experience any discomfort.\\nButterfly pose will stretch out your inner thighs, open your hips, and releases tension in your lower back. All while allowing you to rest and relax!\\nAnd because you’re doing this pose up against the wall instead of sitting upright, you’ll be able to focus more on allowing your body to stretch and relax passively versus worrying about the proper alignment of your spine or utilizing muscles that you need to use when you’re sitting.\\n\\n\\n\\n3. King Arthur’s Pose\\nWhile walls are great for relaxing, gravity-induced yoga poses, they also help yogis deepen their practice in a way that’s safe and promotes good alignment. King Arthur’s Pose is a great example of how yogis can experience a deeper stretch than they normally would doing other similar poses without the assistance of a wall.\\nKing Arthur’s Pose will stretch and lengthen the quadriceps and hip flexors, which is particularly helpful for people who sit a lot during the day for work or school. \\nThis pose feels sooooooo good! Even if you’re already pretty bendy.\\nAnother benefit to this wall pose is that it’s very stabilizing. No need to be wobbling around for standing quad stretches or worrying about keeping your knees protected. This pose takes care of all of that for you!\\n\\n\\n\\n4. Reclined Pigeon Pose\\nThis wall pose version of reclined pigeon pose might be even better than the original!\\nWhy? Because there’s no reaching or grabbing or holding onto anything involved in practicing it. Plus, you can adjust the intensity of this pose by bringing you hips closer to or further away from the wall.\\nReclined pigeon pose will bring sweet relief to tight hips and glutes, as well as releasing tension in the lower back muscles. This wall pose also helps:\\n\\nRelieve sciatica or piriformis issues\\nImprove digestion\\nIncrease blood flow and circulation to pelvis\\nOpen the hips\\nYou may want to rest your head on a pillow or blanket during this pose, but it is not advised to place one under your hips as it could cause your hips to be uneven.\\n\\n5. Standing Forward Bend\\nBesides the fact that beginner yogis and yogis who aren’t super flexible, are older, or have issues with vertigo may struggle to balance during standing forward bend, this wall pose also can help people deepen the stretch in their hamstrings and glutes.\\nSome people really struggle with forward bend, and that’s ok! It doesn’t matter how simple a yoga pose is, if using a wall helps you do a pose correctly and safely, then we’re all for it!\\nThe key to getting the most out of standing forward bend (with or without a wall) is to make sure you allow your head to drop down and hang. Forward bend stretches out the entire spine, the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back muscles.\\nThis inversion pose also helps alleviate migraine pain and headaches and brings more circulation to the brain and scalp. Which is great for cleansing the lymphatic system and boosts immunity.\\nThere are many other poses you can practice using a wall. If you’re familiar with yoga, try these wall yoga poses as well:\\nMelting heart\\nMonkey pose (with back foot anchored)\\nKing Cobra\\nSupine reclined twist\\nSide plank\\nCheck out our latest article on \\n5 Yin Yoga Poses to Loosen Your Hips\\n\\nNeed some help discovering new ways to practice ancient moves? Maybe you aren’t sure about how to perform specific poses, whether it’s against a wall or not. We understand that!\\nGood thing MyYogaTeacher has several solution options for that! If you haven’t checked out our affordable 1:1 membership plans,\\n you can sign up for your 2-week free trial and get a look at what’s available to you here!\\n\\nJoin the community of members who are really enjoying the perks of 1:1 instruction at MyYogaTeacher!\\n“Doing yoga 1:1 I get to practice with one teacher who knows what I need and can track progress.” - Erin, MYT member since October 2019\\n“Making a correction with 1:1 yoga is way better than any corrections that are ever made in a group class.” - Michael, MYT member since October 2019\\n“There is more focus on your alignment and you get more personal attention with 1:1. You make progress a lot quicker because the teacher is able to fully focus on you and change the techniques based on your body type and need.” - Kashmira, MYT member since November 2019\\n\\nLearn more and sign up here!\\n\\n\n\n\n\n"}}],"relatedPosts":[{"id":"clas104kemz1o0bimrwa5ir7s","slug":"yoga-gift-card","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"10 Reasons To Give The Gift Of Yoga This Holiday Season","createdAt":"2022-11-22T09:40:07.784715+00:00","coverUrl":"eomsfhhpzm6rc4ndnem3.jpg","content":{"text":"As the holiday season takes off, it’s not always easy to find the perfect gift for all the special people in our lives. Trying to be unique or give something that stands out can be difficult. But yoga is the gift that keeps on giving! When you give someone the gift of yoga, you’re reminding them how important it is to take time for themselves. Helping them to create space and routine they may not have otherwise. Thinking of giving a \\nMyYogaTeacher gift card\\n for the holidays? There's so many reasons to give the gift of yoga and mindfulness this season! If you’re a yogi, you know the many benefits of yoga and how helpful it is to your day to day life! But maybe there’s someone in your life who has yet to discover the gift of yoga! \n\n\\nHere are the top 10 reasons to give the gift of yoga to someone you love. \\n It’s good for the environment!\\n Gifting a virtual gift card means no wrapping paper. Even if your recipient lives overseas it’s easy to just email the gift right to their inbox!\\nIt promotes self-care! \\nWhen you give the gift of yoga, you’re giving someone you love the chance to take time out of their busy schedule to practice self-care and self love. It’s such a beautiful way to show gratitude to those around us. \\nIt becomes a routine. \\nDid you know it takes 21 days to build a habit? When you give the gift of a month with \\nMyYogaTeacher \\nto someone, it will become part of their routine and lifestyle. And they’ll be grateful you gave them such a beautiful gift. Which brings us to the next reason….\\n \\nYoga creates a community. \\nFor those of us who are still working from home or may live far from those we love, MyYogaTeacher’s online classes give us a chance to create a yoga community while staying home. We look forward to our weekly classes with expert teachers and the friends we make along the way. \\n It’s good for the body! \\nUsually around the holidays we tend to indulge in the name of celebration. Yoga is a great way to balance out celebrating with mindful movement. \\n \\nIt will last long after the holidays.\\n A lot of times, we buy gifts for the moment and the facade wears off quickly. Rather than another useless gadget, yoga gives you the opportunity to learn something new. \\n Yoga can jumpstart your New Year’s goals! \\nMost of us start our fitness goals after the holiday rush. But by giving the gift of yoga, you give your loved ones a leg up on the gym game! \\n If you’re a member, it’s an opportunity to spend more time together. \\nPurchasing a gift card for a friend or family member means you can take classes together even if you’re apart! \\nYoga improves your outlook. \\nIf your loved one has had a tough year or is moving through a hard season in their life, yoga is a great way to increase happiness and overall outlook by introducing them to a mindful practice.\\n It relieves the effects of holiday stress. \\nBetween the shopping, parties and traffic, the holiday season can be \\nvery stressful\\n. Giving the gift of yoga to a stressed out holiday shopper could be just what they need to reset for the end of the year. \\n\n\\nA\\n giftcard to our virtual yoga platform\\n is great for so many people! Having a hard time knowing if it’s right for your recipient? Here’s our top five list! \\nFor that special someone who needs to relax.\\nFor someone in recovery from an injury.\\nFor someone who loves to workout.\\nFor the college student or teacher on holiday break.\\nFor a busy parent. \\nHead over to our website to grab your \\ngift cards\\n so you can do yoga with someone special in your life this holiday season. \\n"}},{"id":"clabcglv4n3fc0ais6yxjyhtq","slug":"yoga-before-and-after-workout","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga Before and After Workout: When is yoga best for you and your body?","createdAt":"2022-11-10T17:28:47.493944+00:00","coverUrl":"dirnebto7s5zxueovsfw.jpg","content":{"text":"Yoga has so many benefits for the body on its own. But if you’re trying to kick your routine into high gear, consider adding yoga onto your other workouts for an extra bang for your buck. If you’re new to yoga and wondering how adding it into your workout routine can benefit you, no worries! We’re here to help! We'll help you figure out where to schedule yoga into your routine.\\n\\nBenefits of Adding Yoga to your Workout:\\n\\n1. Flexibility\\nIf flexibility is one of your fitness goals, yoga is a great way to achieve more physical flexibility. It’s also great to take the place of your stretching routine pre or post workout. Yoga can increase range of motion and help in muscle recovery. \\n\\n2. Conditioning\\nLove HIIT? Yoga is a great way to step up your fitness intensity by helping you condition your body with more stamina and longer breathing patterns for increased cardio abilities. It’s also proven to increase coordination. \n\\n3. Strength\\nLove to go to the gym for cardio but hate to hit the weight rack? No worries, yoga can take the place of strength training by just using your body weight. Through repetition yoga builds muscle and endurance for strength. No weights required!\\n\\n4. Mental Clarity\\nFor most people, working out is a great way to increase endorphins and reduce stress. However, if your workout leaves you too tightly wound or doesn’t do the job of lifting your mental load, a slow flow can help bring you down and help you rebalance. \n\n\\nWhy You Should do Yoga Before Workout? (Pre Workout) \\nIf you’re strength training, or going for an easy walk on your rest day, yoga is great for before your workout. Do you like to get up with the sun and start your day with a workout? Well, starting your day with yoga will bring you clarity and get your body ready to move. \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n is a great place to start your practice and your day. Even if it's gross outside you can still get your practice in. You can pull up our app on your phone or our website right on your computer for 24/7 access to live classes with expert Indian instructors.\\n\\nYou can also use yoga as your warm up! If you’re just waking up or it’s a cold weather season, yoga will help you keep your muscles strong and flexible. If you’re going to the gym for targeted strength training, it can help you focus on balance and alignment to keep your body in check through your workout. Yoga will help you stay balanced and avoid injury by increasing mobility in the body. And finally, Yoga puts your mental health in check. Adding in a moving meditation or some breath work before your workout will keep your body calm, help you align with your goals and avoid the flight or fight symptoms that can come on during an intense or tough workout. \n\\n\\n5 Yoga Poses to Practice Before Your Workout:\n\\n1. Child's Pose\\nThis pose will help you open your hips and reduce injury on core or leg days.\\n\\n\\n2. Cat Cow Pose\\nMoving through your spine slowly with these stretches will help increase mobility in the back. \\n\\n\\n3. Downward Dog Pose\\nPushing up into a downdog to start your day will stretch your entire lower body from your toes to your hips.\\n\\n\\n4. Forward Fold Pose\\nFolding forward increases the blood flow in the body and helps us maintain spine and core stability. \\n\\n\\n5. Mountain Pose\\nThis pose helps us to establish alignment and increase body awareness before a workout! \\n\\n\\n\\nYoga Classes to Try Before your Workout \\n\\nRise and shine 30 min flow\\n : Start your day with this quick flow. This class is meant to increase your physical fitness and help build your stamina so you can workout longer!\\n\\nHatha Vinyasa\\n : Gain mental clarity at the beginning of your workout with this traditional hatha flow. \\n\\nSlow Flow Vinyasa\\n : Start your day slow and steady for your mind and body. The slow pace of this class allows us to connect with our bodies and minds as we focus on our breath and alignment. This class helps to build strength, improve flexibility and stability. \n\\nWhy you should do yoga post workout ?\\nIf your workout is more high energy like kickboxing, zumba, cycling etc, yoga after may be best for bringing your body back to homeostasis. Yoga naturally brings down heart rate and reduces stress on the body and mind . You can use Yoga as a cool down or stretching portion of your workout to bring muscles into recovery while extending your burn a little longer. Are you a nighttime warrior? If you tend to work out at night, ending your routine with yoga will help you get a better night’s sleep. \\n\\n5 Yoga Poses to Practice After your Workout:\\n\\n1. Wide Leg Forward Fold Pose\\nWide leg forward fold releases our lower back. Reaching down towards the floor will give our calves a much needed stretch post workout!\\n\\n\\n2. Pigeon Pose\\nThis pose will help to open tight and tired hips and hamstrings. \\n\\n\\n3. Bound Angle Pose\\nThis hip opener stretches your adductors and quadriceps. Try this pose after a run or cardio workout. \\n\\n\\n4. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\nThis pose provides a full body stretch from your head to your heels! \\n\\n\\n5. Happy Baby Pose\\nThis pose helps to alleviate or avoid lower back pain post workout. It can also reduce any stress or anxiety caused by your workout. \\n\\n\\nYoga Classes to Try After your Workout\\n\\nBreath and Flow\\n : This full body flow will help stretch and rejuvenate your muscles as well as relax your mind with meditation and pranayama techniques. \\n\\nYoga Fusion for Joints\\n : This conditioning class combines light weights and foam roller stretches for an active recovery post workout. \\n\\nBreath and Meditation\\n : Join this class to slow down the body and refocus your breathing. Ideal for end of the day or transitions. \\n\\nNo matter what time of day you choose to workout, adding yoga 2 to 3 times a week will extend the life of your routine and help you maintain a positive outlook on your fitness goals. You can add yoga to your workout anytime with us here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n by creating an account, logging in and joining us for class! "}},{"id":"cla8lbvafc0i70ak9u3yp18ji","slug":"yin-yoga-for-arthritis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yin Yoga for Arthritis: 10 poses to ease your pain","createdAt":"2022-11-08T19:13:44.482852+00:00","coverUrl":"ipqjb5ugsgcaxzssgbhi.jpg","content":{"text":"When your body is achy and it feels hard to mobilize, you may be suffering from arthritis. This very common inflammation of the joints affects 24% of adults. In a 2019 study on inflammation biomarkers, Research for nursing found that yoga is great for pain intervention, saying “yoga may be particularly effective in reducing inflammation because, unlike exercise or stress reduction alone, yoga has components of both relaxation techniques and exercise.” Yoga can help to ease your pain and help you to go about your day good as new. \\n\\nCommon causes of Arthritis\\nThe most common causes for arthritis are age, genetics, weight gain and previous injury. Even though it can be long lasting, arthritis is treatable with movement therapies like yoga and meditation and lucky for us, Yin combines both! Building a yoga practice into your routine can alleviate joint pain as well as improve flexibility and joint function. Yoga can also help you manage the stress caused by pain which will result in better days and less sleepless nights. \\n\n\\nTypes of Arthritis\\nThere are three common types of arthritis. \\n1. Osteoarthritis, which is the most common cause of arthritis and is known as “wear and tear” on the joints. It most frequently occurs in the hips, hands and knees. \\n2. Rheumatoid Arthritis, which is autoimmune disorder and creates inflammation in the hands and feet. \\n3. Fibromyalgia which causes pain all over the body and fatigue. All three of these can be eased by a yin-yoga practice. \\n\n\\nWhy Yin Yoga for Arthritis?\\nYin yoga is a style of movement based in Chinese medicine. Yin’s specific goal is to rebalance the body and mind. It’s not simply a practice for strength or flexibility but a practice where movement is the medicine. Unlike any other yoga or workout class, yin goes deeper to connect under your skin to your ligaments, deep tissue and bones.\\n\n\\nBuilding your yin-yoga practice online with us at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n is also beneficial because even on days when the pain seems too intense, you don’t need to leave your home to get to your practice. You can pull up our live classes 24/7 with expert Indian instructors who are ready to help you move through your pain. Our classes are there everyday to help you manage your pain and get in your practice! We make yoga accessible for everyone. A slow yin practice is a great place to start! Yin can relieve pain by reducing physical and mental stress and pressure off the body. Let’s start by finding some moves to get you going! \\n\\n10 Ying Yoga Poses to Ease Your Arthritis Pain\\nWhen practicing these yin yoga poses, it’s best to hold each stretch for 30 seconds to two minutes. These stretches will help bring flexibility into your joints! \\n\\n1. Wide Knee Child’s Pose\n\\n\\n\nThis pose is great for lower back pain and your hip flexors. Also great for pain in the sciatic nerve. \n\\n2. Thunderbolt Pose\n\\n\\n\\nThis pose improves blood circulation and posture easing pain in the spine. \n\\n3. Cobra Pose\n\\n\\n\\nThis pose opens the lungs while stretching the spine and shoulders. This will help you open your chest. \n\\n4. Forward Fold Pose\n\\n\\n\\nFolding the body down is known to calm the mind and lower blood pressure. Come to this pose when you feel anxious or stressed and need to slow down. \n\\n5. Side Angle Bend Pose\n\\n\\n\\nSide angle opens the side body and takes pressure off your hips.\n\\n6. Chair Pose\n\\n\\n\\nChair pose makes your legs stronger, giving you more stability in the knees and more flexibility in the ankles. \n\\n7. Pigeon Pose\n\\n\\n\\nThis pose supports flexibility and mobility in the hip joint. If you’re suffering from osteoarthritis, this pose will help target your lower back and hips. \n\\n8. Bridge Pose\n\\n\\n\nThis powerhouse pose will improve blood circulation and ease stress while also stretching your neck, chest and hamstrings. Come to this pose when you feel stiff. Move through it slowly. \\n\\n9. Wind Reliever Pose\n\\n\\n\nThis pose stabilizes your center of gravity, your pelvis. It also guards you muscles and eases pain along the spine. \\n\\n10. Savasana Pose\n\\n\\n\nFinally, Savasana is so important in your practice. This corpse pose slows down your nervous system while you focus on your breath. It calms the mind and reduces fatigue and anxiety. This is a great place to start or end your yoga practice. \\n\\nOther ways to relieve arthritis pain\\nWant to try other holistic ways to ease your pain? We’ve got you covered! Here are the top five things to add into your routine to feel like your best self!\\nAdd color to your diet! It’s so important to “eat the rainbow” eating lots of fruits and veggies gives you a vitamin boost and helps to naturally fight inflammation. \\nChange up the temp. Adding a hot or cold compress to the affected area is a quick fix when you’re feeling pain. Try a heating pad or an ice pack if you’re short on time. If you have time to relax, try soaking in a warm bath!\\nAdd herbs. Turmeric and ginger can help fight pain and inflammation in the body. Add these herbs to your meals or try ginger tea at night to wake up pain free.\\nAdd more self care to your routine. Book a deep tissue massage or a sauna session so you can relax your body and mind.\\nPractice mindfulness. A meditation practice pairs great with a new yoga practice! You can meditate on your own or get started with us in meditation class! \n\\nTry these classes to get started! \\n\\nStretch and Breath with Shrutika\\n. This class will increase range of motion, control and flexibility in the joints.\\n\\nTotal Body Yin\\n. This slow restorative practice will stretch deep into your joints and facia. This is a great practice to end your day with. \\n\\nYoga for Back Health.\\n This mostly seated class will help you work through any back pain while strengthening your spine and surrounding muscles. \\nIf you’re ready to start your journey to recovery, join us for a practice at \\nMyYogaTeacher.\\n\\nOur expert yoga therapist will help you move through your pain or start a mindfulness practice so you can get back to feeling healthy and pain free! Our 2-Week Free Trial - includes 14 days of unlimited group classes plus 2 complimentary 1-on-1 sessions, that’s a $102 value - for free!\\nThere’s a plan for every yogi! Begin your journey with us today."}}],"blogContent":{"id":"cl0l2psls878y0bhau0shk9tp","slug":"prevent-yoga-injuries","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"6 Ways to Prevent Yoga Injuries Even if You’re a Yogi Expert","createdAt":"2022-03-10T14:16:38.412179+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-03-10T14:16:38.412179+00:00","coverUrl":"wpijh5hjaabixnwv7kzc.jpg","seoDescription":"Get ready to explore how to prevent yoga injuries! Whether you're a new yogi or a seasoned one, these tips will help you practice yoga safely!","content":{"text":"Whether you’re just stepping foot on a yoga mat or you’ve been practicing for decades, yoga injuries are a real thing. Which is somewhat strange, since many people use yoga to heal and prevent injuries, right?\\nModernized yoga practices are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the United States. While there is nothing wrong with this, it does mean that more and more people are using yoga as a physical exercise and \\nonly\\n a physical exercise. They’re jumping into yoga studios and just as quickly into group classes where they push and push themselves to be and do better.\\nWhile it’s perfectly ok (and normal) to strive for mastering more advanced poses, there is so much more to yoga than asanas.\\nWhen we spend less and less time in the philosophy and lifestyle of yoga, we are more likely to get injured during our yoga practice.\\nMyYogaTeacher offers traditional, authentic group and 1-on-1 yoga classes to people of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds. Our yoga instructors from India are experts in the field of yoga and guide their students on their yoga journey! Because it \\nis\\n a journey, not just a practice!\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\\n\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\nReady to explore how to prevent yoga injuries? You might be surprised by what you find out!\n\\n1. Don’t let your ego lead your yoga practice\\nWhy do you practice yoga? Is it to bring harmony to your inner and outer worlds? Is it so you can become more self-aware? Maybe it’s because you’re working on becoming more physically fit, stronger, more flexible. These are all fantastic reasons to practice yoga!\\nOr are you practicing for other reasons:\n\\nTo impress your teacher?\\nTo make your partner/spouse happy?\\nTo get approval, followers, or win favor on social media?\\nTo prove to yourself you can “master” certain poses?\\nThese reasons are unhealthy and come from your ego. There are others as well, but letting your ego lead your yoga practice can cause you to push your body in ways that are harmful, causing yoga injuries.\\n\\n\\n2. Choose a yoga practice that balances your life\\nIf you’re a runner, swimmer, cycler, athlete, you’re already training intensely. Probably almost every day. You’re putting a lot of strain on your body, which can cause a yoga injury if you’re not choosing the right practice for your lifestyle.\\nMuscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints need a break sometimes, and yoga is a great way to actively rest and restore those parts of your body that need some TLC. If you’re very physically active or an athlete, your safest option is to practice a gentle form of yoga, such as yin yoga or Iyengar yoga to prevent injuries.\\nOn the other hand, if you’re mostly sedentary, vinyasa yoga or modified ashtanga yoga might balance out your life. Even if you’re an experienced yoga practitioner.\\n\\n3. Mix up your yoga practice\\nMany people who practice yoga do so almost every day. Why? Because it feels good! But taking intense, long yoga classes can cause injury if you’re practicing 5-7 days a week.\\nA good way to avoid yoga injury is to mix up your yoga practice. If you do power yoga one day, try yin yoga the next. If you practice vinyasa yoga regularly, mix in an Iyengar yoga or hatha yoga practice to prevent injuries.\\nPractices that are too intense or done too often lead to overuse of muscles and joints, and that is counterproductive.\\n\\n\\n4. Pay attention to what your body tells you\\nIf it hurts, don’t do it. No matter how much you may want to push yourself, the “no pain, no gain” mentality is outdated and unhealthy. Yes, yoga can be uncomfortable at times. But there’s a big difference between discomfort and actual pain.\\nListen to your body! Many yoga injuries occur because yogis are trying to master a certain pose before their body is ready. Preventing yoga injuries may mean you have to be more patient with yourself, modify, and/or use props until your body is ready to progress safely.\\nAn excellent yoga teacher can also help you honor your body’s limitations.\\n\\n5. Protect your shoulders\\nWhile good alignment is key to preventing yoga injuries and protecting your joints, it’s easy to overuse the tendons and ligaments in your shoulder joints if you practice yoga often. Jump backs, Chaturanga, and planks can be very hard on your shoulders if done incorrectly or too often.\\nIf you practice yoga every day, modify your practice by dropping your knees or skipping Chaturanga altogether sometimes to prevent injury to the shoulder joints.\\n\\n\\n6. Protect your hips and lower back\\nDo you warm up before your yoga practice? Does your yoga teacher lead a thorough warm up? Warming up prevents yoga injuries, and if you’re not taking this important step in your yoga practice, it’s important to start!\\nA good warm up and good yoga alignment are two great ways to protect your lower back and hips during your yoga practice. Here are a few more:\\n\\nSit on a bolster or blocks for seated forward bends and twists\\nOnly go as far as your body wants to go (don’t force it)\\nKeep your core engaged to protect your lower back\\nBalance flexibility with strength training for back and hip areas\\nWhile these tips are meant to guide you and help you and help you prevent yoga injuries, they are also meant to encourage you! You \\ncan\\n accomplish your yoga goals safely. \\nOne of the very best ways to grow in your yoga practice and prevent injury is to take classes with an experienced, highly qualified yoga teacher. \\nMyYogaTeacher offers 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n\\n","html":"<p>Whether you’re just stepping foot on a yoga mat or you’ve been practicing for decades, yoga injuries are a real thing. Which is somewhat strange, since many people use yoga to heal and prevent injuries, right?</p><p>Modernized yoga practices are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the United States. While there is nothing wrong with this, it does mean that more and more people are using yoga as a physical exercise and <em>only</em> a physical exercise. They’re jumping into yoga studios and just as quickly into group classes where they push and push themselves to be and do better.</p><p>While it’s perfectly ok (and normal) to strive for mastering more advanced poses, there is so much more to yoga than asanas.</p><p>When we spend less and less time in the philosophy and lifestyle of yoga, we are more likely to get injured during our yoga practice.</p><p>MyYogaTeacher offers traditional, authentic group and 1-on-1 yoga classes to people of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds. Our yoga instructors from India are experts in the field of yoga and guide their students on their yoga journey! Because it <em>is</em> a journey, not just a practice!</p><p>Not a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!</p><p>When you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:</p><p></p><ul><li><div><p><strong>102 expert</strong>, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>The ability to switch instructors</strong> or take classes with only your faves</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Access to unlimited group classes</strong>, taught <em><strong>live</strong></em></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Personalized instruction</strong> and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>To be a member of a HUGE community</strong> of happy yogis from around the world</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Yoga teachers who become friends</strong>, who truly care about you!</p></div></li></ul><p>If you haven’t checked us out already, <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\"><u>grab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here</u></a>!</p><p>Ready to explore how to prevent yoga injuries? You might be surprised by what you find out!<br></p><h2>1. Don’t let your ego lead your yoga practice</h2><p>Why do you practice yoga? Is it to bring harmony to your inner and outer worlds? Is it so you can become more self-aware? Maybe it’s because you’re working on becoming more physically fit, stronger, more flexible. These are all fantastic reasons to practice yoga!</p><p>Or are you practicing for other reasons:<br></p><ul><li><div><p>To impress your teacher?</p></div></li><li><div><p>To make your partner/spouse happy?</p></div></li><li><div><p>To get approval, followers, or win favor on social media?</p></div></li><li><div><p>To prove to yourself you can “master” certain poses?</p></div></li></ul><p>These reasons are unhealthy and come from your ego. There are others as well, but letting your ego lead your yoga practice can cause you to push your body in ways that are harmful, causing yoga injuries.</p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/3yYPFUy3SAe37ZHW7Tbr\" alt=\"_DSC7737.JPG\" title=\"_DSC7737.JPG\" width=\"6048\" height=\"4024\" /><h2>2. Choose a yoga practice that balances your life</h2><p>If you’re a runner, swimmer, cycler, athlete, you’re already training intensely. Probably almost every day. You’re putting a lot of strain on your body, which can cause a yoga injury if you’re not choosing the right practice for your lifestyle.</p><p>Muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints need a break sometimes, and yoga is a great way to actively rest and restore those parts of your body that need some TLC. If you’re very physically active or an athlete, your safest option is to practice a gentle form of yoga, such as yin yoga or Iyengar yoga to prevent injuries.</p><p>On the other hand, if you’re mostly sedentary, vinyasa yoga or modified ashtanga yoga might balance out your life. Even if you’re an experienced yoga practitioner.</p><p></p><h2>3. Mix up your yoga practice</h2><p>Many people who practice yoga do so almost every day. Why? Because it feels good! But taking intense, long yoga classes can cause injury if you’re practicing 5-7 days a week.</p><p>A good way to avoid yoga injury is to mix up your yoga practice. If you do power yoga one day, try yin yoga the next. If you practice vinyasa yoga regularly, mix in an Iyengar yoga or hatha yoga practice to prevent injuries.</p><p>Practices that are too intense or done too often lead to overuse of muscles and joints, and that is counterproductive.</p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/kCERjjRvQ0GeuWtQwS4W\" alt=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\" title=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" /><h2>4. Pay attention to what your body tells you</h2><p>If it hurts, don’t do it. No matter how much you may want to push yourself, the “no pain, no gain” mentality is outdated and unhealthy. Yes, yoga can be uncomfortable at times. But there’s a big difference between discomfort and actual pain.</p><p>Listen to your body! Many yoga injuries occur because yogis are trying to master a certain pose before their body is ready. Preventing yoga injuries may mean you have to be more patient with yourself, modify, and/or use props until your body is ready to progress safely.</p><p>An excellent yoga teacher can also help you honor your body’s limitations.</p><p></p><h2>5. Protect your shoulders</h2><p>While good alignment is key to preventing yoga injuries and protecting your joints, it’s easy to overuse the tendons and ligaments in your shoulder joints if you practice yoga often. Jump backs, Chaturanga, and planks can be very hard on your shoulders if done incorrectly or too often.</p><p>If you practice yoga every day, modify your practice by dropping your knees or skipping Chaturanga altogether sometimes to prevent injury to the shoulder joints.</p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/MczvTfUOSZKvEUmyKdE7\" alt=\"_DSC7496.JPG\" title=\"_DSC7496.JPG\" width=\"6048\" height=\"4024\" /><h2>6. Protect your hips and lower back</h2><p>Do you warm up before your yoga practice? Does your yoga teacher lead a thorough warm up? Warming up prevents yoga injuries, and if you’re not taking this important step in your yoga practice, it’s important to start!</p><p>A good warm up and good yoga alignment are two great ways to protect your lower back and hips during your yoga practice. Here are a few more:</p><p></p><ul><li><div><p>Sit on a bolster or blocks for seated forward bends and twists</p></div></li><li><div><p>Only go as far as your body wants to go (don’t force it)</p></div></li><li><div><p>Keep your core engaged to protect your lower back</p></div></li><li><div><p>Balance flexibility with strength training for back and hip areas</p></div></li></ul><p>While these tips are meant to guide you and help you and help you prevent yoga injuries, they are also meant to encourage you! You <em>can</em> accomplish your yoga goals safely. </p><p>One of the very best ways to grow in your yoga practice and prevent injury is to take classes with an experienced, highly qualified yoga teacher. </p><p>MyYogaTeacher offers 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:</p><ul><li><div><strong>Radiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness</strong></div></li></ul><ul><li><div><p><strong>42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Discounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Making new like-minded friends from around the world</strong></p></div></li></ul><p><a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\"><u>Grab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!</u></a></p><p></p>"},"category":[],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>Whether you’re just stepping foot on a yoga mat or you’ve been practicing for decades, yoga injuries are a real thing. Which is somewhat strange, since many people use yoga to heal and prevent injuries, right?</p><p>Modernized yoga practices are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the United States. While there is nothing wrong with this, it does mean that more and more people are using yoga as a physical exercise and <em>only</em> a physical exercise. They’re jumping into yoga studios and just as quickly into group classes where they push and push themselves to be and do better.</p><p>While it’s perfectly ok (and normal) to strive for mastering more advanced poses, there is so much more to yoga than asanas.</p><p>When we spend less and less time in the philosophy and lifestyle of yoga, we are more likely to get injured during our yoga practice.</p><p>MyYogaTeacher offers traditional, authentic group and 1-on-1 yoga classes to people of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds. Our yoga instructors from India are experts in the field of yoga and guide their students on their yoga journey! Because it <em>is</em> a journey, not just a practice!</p><p>Not a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!</p><p>When you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:</p><p></p><ul><li><div><p><strong>102 expert</strong>, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>The ability to switch instructors</strong> or take classes with only your faves</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Access to unlimited group classes</strong>, taught <em><strong>live</strong></em></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Personalized instruction</strong> and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>To be a member of a HUGE community</strong> of happy yogis from around the world</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Yoga teachers who become friends</strong>, who truly care about you!</p></div></li></ul><p>If you haven’t checked us out already, <a\n class=\"inline-cta\"\n id=731fe6e6-6a46-4067-8470-a99d1c42fb2a\n href=\"/signup?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=cl0l2psls878y0bhau0shk9tp&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=6 Ways to Prevent Yoga Injuries Even if You’re a Yogi Expert&entity_slug=prevent-yoga-injuries&page_or_popup=/articles/prevent-yoga-injuries&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"731fe6e6-6a46-4067-8470-a99d1c42fb2a\")\n title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n data-title=\"6 Ways to Prevent Yoga Injuries Even if You’re a Yogi Expert\"\n data-slug=\"prevent-yoga-injuries\"\n <u><u>grab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here</u></u> \n </a>!</p><p>Ready to explore how to prevent yoga injuries? You might be surprised by what you find out!<br></p><h2>1. Don’t let your ego lead your yoga practice</h2><p>Why do you practice yoga? Is it to bring harmony to your inner and outer worlds? Is it so you can become more self-aware? Maybe it’s because you’re working on becoming more physically fit, stronger, more flexible. These are all fantastic reasons to practice yoga!</p><p>Or are you practicing for other reasons:<br></p><ul><li><div><p>To impress your teacher?</p></div></li><li><div><p>To make your partner/spouse happy?</p></div></li><li><div><p>To get approval, followers, or win favor on social media?</p></div></li><li><div><p>To prove to yourself you can “master” certain poses?</p></div></li></ul><p>These reasons are unhealthy and come from your ego. There are others as well, but letting your ego lead your yoga practice can cause you to push your body in ways that are harmful, causing yoga injuries.</p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/3yYPFUy3SAe37ZHW7Tbr\" \n alt=\"_DSC7737.JPG\"\n title=\"_DSC7737.JPG\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/3yYPFUy3SAe37ZHW7Tbr\"\n alt=\"_DSC7737.JPG\"\n title=\"_DSC7737.JPG\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/3yYPFUy3SAe37ZHW7Tbr\"\n alt=\"_DSC7737.JPG\"\n title=\"_DSC7737.JPG\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <h2>2. Choose a yoga practice that balances your life</h2><p>If you’re a runner, swimmer, cycler, athlete, you’re already training intensely. Probably almost every day. You’re putting a lot of strain on your body, which can cause a yoga injury if you’re not choosing the right practice for your lifestyle.</p><p>Muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints need a break sometimes, and yoga is a great way to actively rest and restore those parts of your body that need some TLC. If you’re very physically active or an athlete, your safest option is to practice a gentle form of yoga, such as yin yoga or Iyengar yoga to prevent injuries.</p><p>On the other hand, if you’re mostly sedentary, vinyasa yoga or modified ashtanga yoga might balance out your life. Even if you’re an experienced yoga practitioner.</p><p></p><h2>3. Mix up your yoga practice</h2><p>Many people who practice yoga do so almost every day. Why? Because it feels good! But taking intense, long yoga classes can cause injury if you’re practicing 5-7 days a week.</p><p>A good way to avoid yoga injury is to mix up your yoga practice. If you do power yoga one day, try yin yoga the next. If you practice vinyasa yoga regularly, mix in an Iyengar yoga or hatha yoga practice to prevent injuries.</p><p>Practices that are too intense or done too often lead to overuse of muscles and joints, and that is counterproductive.</p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/kCERjjRvQ0GeuWtQwS4W\" \n alt=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\"\n title=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/kCERjjRvQ0GeuWtQwS4W\"\n alt=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\"\n title=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/kCERjjRvQ0GeuWtQwS4W\"\n alt=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\"\n title=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <h2>4. Pay attention to what your body tells you</h2><p>If it hurts, don’t do it. No matter how much you may want to push yourself, the “no pain, no gain” mentality is outdated and unhealthy. Yes, yoga can be uncomfortable at times. But there’s a big difference between discomfort and actual pain.</p><p>Listen to your body! Many yoga injuries occur because yogis are trying to master a certain pose before their body is ready. Preventing yoga injuries may mean you have to be more patient with yourself, modify, and/or use props until your body is ready to progress safely.</p><p>An excellent yoga teacher can also help you honor your body’s limitations.</p><p></p><h2>5. Protect your shoulders</h2><p>While good alignment is key to preventing yoga injuries and protecting your joints, it’s easy to overuse the tendons and ligaments in your shoulder joints if you practice yoga often. Jump backs, Chaturanga, and planks can be very hard on your shoulders if done incorrectly or too often.</p><p>If you practice yoga every day, modify your practice by dropping your knees or skipping Chaturanga altogether sometimes to prevent injury to the shoulder joints.</p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/MczvTfUOSZKvEUmyKdE7\" \n alt=\"_DSC7496.JPG\"\n title=\"_DSC7496.JPG\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/MczvTfUOSZKvEUmyKdE7\"\n alt=\"_DSC7496.JPG\"\n title=\"_DSC7496.JPG\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/MczvTfUOSZKvEUmyKdE7\"\n alt=\"_DSC7496.JPG\"\n title=\"_DSC7496.JPG\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <h2>6. Protect your hips and lower back</h2><p>Do you warm up before your yoga practice? Does your yoga teacher lead a thorough warm up? Warming up prevents yoga injuries, and if you’re not taking this important step in your yoga practice, it’s important to start!</p><p>A good warm up and good yoga alignment are two great ways to protect your lower back and hips during your yoga practice. Here are a few more:</p><p></p><ul><li><div><p>Sit on a bolster or blocks for seated forward bends and twists</p></div></li><li><div><p>Only go as far as your body wants to go (don’t force it)</p></div></li><li><div><p>Keep your core engaged to protect your lower back</p></div></li><li><div><p>Balance flexibility with strength training for back and hip areas</p></div></li></ul><p>While these tips are meant to guide you and help you and help you prevent yoga injuries, they are also meant to encourage you! You <em>can</em> accomplish your yoga goals safely. </p><p>One of the very best ways to grow in your yoga practice and prevent injury is to take classes with an experienced, highly qualified yoga teacher. </p><p>MyYogaTeacher offers 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:</p><ul><li><div><strong>Radiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness</strong></div></li></ul><ul><li><div><p><strong>42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Discounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Making new like-minded friends from around the world</strong></p></div></li></ul><p><a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\"><u>Grab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!</u></a></p><p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"prevent-yoga-injuries","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"signup","redirectURL":"#","current_url":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/prevent-yoga-injuries","student_details":"","facebookUrl":"","twitterUrl":"","copyUrl":"","emailUrl":"","ctaContent":[{"id":"ckxrz2i14tov40c25g1dpicsg","name":"[CTA-DEFAULT]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. 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No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong> Learn Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Pranayama!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckykb6i2o1o7f0b368s1m7qow","name":"[CTA-LYMPHATIC]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong> for lymphatic drainage & immunity enhancement. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group yoga classes</strong> (including daily yin-yoga) when you sign up today! No credit card required to sign up.</p><p></p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>for Lymphatic Drainage & Boosting Your Immune System!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl2vqlpyfe3yh0biohgxyx2hg","name":"[CTA-LEAD]","description":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl4gnwnrlga640ck37gutx7sn","name":"[CTA-GC]","description":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"}],"post":{"id":"cl0l2psls878y0bhau0shk9tp","slug":"prevent-yoga-injuries","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"6 Ways to Prevent Yoga Injuries Even if You’re a Yogi Expert","createdAt":"2022-03-10T14:16:38.412179+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-03-10T14:16:38.412179+00:00","coverUrl":"wpijh5hjaabixnwv7kzc.jpg","seoDescription":"Get ready to explore how to prevent yoga injuries! Whether you're a new yogi or a seasoned one, these tips will help you practice yoga safely!","content":{"text":"Whether you’re just stepping foot on a yoga mat or you’ve been practicing for decades, yoga injuries are a real thing. Which is somewhat strange, since many people use yoga to heal and prevent injuries, right?\\nModernized yoga practices are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the United States. While there is nothing wrong with this, it does mean that more and more people are using yoga as a physical exercise and \\nonly\\n a physical exercise. They’re jumping into yoga studios and just as quickly into group classes where they push and push themselves to be and do better.\\nWhile it’s perfectly ok (and normal) to strive for mastering more advanced poses, there is so much more to yoga than asanas.\\nWhen we spend less and less time in the philosophy and lifestyle of yoga, we are more likely to get injured during our yoga practice.\\nMyYogaTeacher offers traditional, authentic group and 1-on-1 yoga classes to people of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds. Our yoga instructors from India are experts in the field of yoga and guide their students on their yoga journey! Because it \\nis\\n a journey, not just a practice!\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\\n\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\nReady to explore how to prevent yoga injuries? You might be surprised by what you find out!\n\\n1. Don’t let your ego lead your yoga practice\\nWhy do you practice yoga? Is it to bring harmony to your inner and outer worlds? Is it so you can become more self-aware? Maybe it’s because you’re working on becoming more physically fit, stronger, more flexible. These are all fantastic reasons to practice yoga!\\nOr are you practicing for other reasons:\n\\nTo impress your teacher?\\nTo make your partner/spouse happy?\\nTo get approval, followers, or win favor on social media?\\nTo prove to yourself you can “master” certain poses?\\nThese reasons are unhealthy and come from your ego. There are others as well, but letting your ego lead your yoga practice can cause you to push your body in ways that are harmful, causing yoga injuries.\\n\\n\\n2. Choose a yoga practice that balances your life\\nIf you’re a runner, swimmer, cycler, athlete, you’re already training intensely. Probably almost every day. You’re putting a lot of strain on your body, which can cause a yoga injury if you’re not choosing the right practice for your lifestyle.\\nMuscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints need a break sometimes, and yoga is a great way to actively rest and restore those parts of your body that need some TLC. If you’re very physically active or an athlete, your safest option is to practice a gentle form of yoga, such as yin yoga or Iyengar yoga to prevent injuries.\\nOn the other hand, if you’re mostly sedentary, vinyasa yoga or modified ashtanga yoga might balance out your life. Even if you’re an experienced yoga practitioner.\\n\\n3. Mix up your yoga practice\\nMany people who practice yoga do so almost every day. Why? Because it feels good! But taking intense, long yoga classes can cause injury if you’re practicing 5-7 days a week.\\nA good way to avoid yoga injury is to mix up your yoga practice. If you do power yoga one day, try yin yoga the next. If you practice vinyasa yoga regularly, mix in an Iyengar yoga or hatha yoga practice to prevent injuries.\\nPractices that are too intense or done too often lead to overuse of muscles and joints, and that is counterproductive.\\n\\n\\n4. Pay attention to what your body tells you\\nIf it hurts, don’t do it. No matter how much you may want to push yourself, the “no pain, no gain” mentality is outdated and unhealthy. Yes, yoga can be uncomfortable at times. But there’s a big difference between discomfort and actual pain.\\nListen to your body! Many yoga injuries occur because yogis are trying to master a certain pose before their body is ready. Preventing yoga injuries may mean you have to be more patient with yourself, modify, and/or use props until your body is ready to progress safely.\\nAn excellent yoga teacher can also help you honor your body’s limitations.\\n\\n5. Protect your shoulders\\nWhile good alignment is key to preventing yoga injuries and protecting your joints, it’s easy to overuse the tendons and ligaments in your shoulder joints if you practice yoga often. Jump backs, Chaturanga, and planks can be very hard on your shoulders if done incorrectly or too often.\\nIf you practice yoga every day, modify your practice by dropping your knees or skipping Chaturanga altogether sometimes to prevent injury to the shoulder joints.\\n\\n\\n6. Protect your hips and lower back\\nDo you warm up before your yoga practice? Does your yoga teacher lead a thorough warm up? Warming up prevents yoga injuries, and if you’re not taking this important step in your yoga practice, it’s important to start!\\nA good warm up and good yoga alignment are two great ways to protect your lower back and hips during your yoga practice. Here are a few more:\\n\\nSit on a bolster or blocks for seated forward bends and twists\\nOnly go as far as your body wants to go (don’t force it)\\nKeep your core engaged to protect your lower back\\nBalance flexibility with strength training for back and hip areas\\nWhile these tips are meant to guide you and help you and help you prevent yoga injuries, they are also meant to encourage you! You \\ncan\\n accomplish your yoga goals safely. \\nOne of the very best ways to grow in your yoga practice and prevent injury is to take classes with an experienced, highly qualified yoga teacher. \\nMyYogaTeacher offers 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n\\n","html":"<p>Whether you’re just stepping foot on a yoga mat or you’ve been practicing for decades, yoga injuries are a real thing. Which is somewhat strange, since many people use yoga to heal and prevent injuries, right?</p><p>Modernized yoga practices are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the United States. While there is nothing wrong with this, it does mean that more and more people are using yoga as a physical exercise and <em>only</em> a physical exercise. They’re jumping into yoga studios and just as quickly into group classes where they push and push themselves to be and do better.</p><p>While it’s perfectly ok (and normal) to strive for mastering more advanced poses, there is so much more to yoga than asanas.</p><p>When we spend less and less time in the philosophy and lifestyle of yoga, we are more likely to get injured during our yoga practice.</p><p>MyYogaTeacher offers traditional, authentic group and 1-on-1 yoga classes to people of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds. Our yoga instructors from India are experts in the field of yoga and guide their students on their yoga journey! Because it <em>is</em> a journey, not just a practice!</p><p>Not a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!</p><p>When you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:</p><p></p><ul><li><div><p><strong>102 expert</strong>, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>The ability to switch instructors</strong> or take classes with only your faves</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Access to unlimited group classes</strong>, taught <em><strong>live</strong></em></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Personalized instruction</strong> and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>To be a member of a HUGE community</strong> of happy yogis from around the world</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Yoga teachers who become friends</strong>, who truly care about you!</p></div></li></ul><p>If you haven’t checked us out already, <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\"><u>grab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here</u></a>!</p><p>Ready to explore how to prevent yoga injuries? You might be surprised by what you find out!<br></p><h2>1. Don’t let your ego lead your yoga practice</h2><p>Why do you practice yoga? Is it to bring harmony to your inner and outer worlds? Is it so you can become more self-aware? Maybe it’s because you’re working on becoming more physically fit, stronger, more flexible. These are all fantastic reasons to practice yoga!</p><p>Or are you practicing for other reasons:<br></p><ul><li><div><p>To impress your teacher?</p></div></li><li><div><p>To make your partner/spouse happy?</p></div></li><li><div><p>To get approval, followers, or win favor on social media?</p></div></li><li><div><p>To prove to yourself you can “master” certain poses?</p></div></li></ul><p>These reasons are unhealthy and come from your ego. There are others as well, but letting your ego lead your yoga practice can cause you to push your body in ways that are harmful, causing yoga injuries.</p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/3yYPFUy3SAe37ZHW7Tbr\" alt=\"_DSC7737.JPG\" title=\"_DSC7737.JPG\" width=\"6048\" height=\"4024\" /><h2>2. Choose a yoga practice that balances your life</h2><p>If you’re a runner, swimmer, cycler, athlete, you’re already training intensely. Probably almost every day. You’re putting a lot of strain on your body, which can cause a yoga injury if you’re not choosing the right practice for your lifestyle.</p><p>Muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints need a break sometimes, and yoga is a great way to actively rest and restore those parts of your body that need some TLC. If you’re very physically active or an athlete, your safest option is to practice a gentle form of yoga, such as yin yoga or Iyengar yoga to prevent injuries.</p><p>On the other hand, if you’re mostly sedentary, vinyasa yoga or modified ashtanga yoga might balance out your life. Even if you’re an experienced yoga practitioner.</p><p></p><h2>3. Mix up your yoga practice</h2><p>Many people who practice yoga do so almost every day. Why? Because it feels good! But taking intense, long yoga classes can cause injury if you’re practicing 5-7 days a week.</p><p>A good way to avoid yoga injury is to mix up your yoga practice. If you do power yoga one day, try yin yoga the next. If you practice vinyasa yoga regularly, mix in an Iyengar yoga or hatha yoga practice to prevent injuries.</p><p>Practices that are too intense or done too often lead to overuse of muscles and joints, and that is counterproductive.</p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/kCERjjRvQ0GeuWtQwS4W\" alt=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\" title=\"4143473057707883372_IMG_8546-2-1200x800.jpg\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" /><h2>4. Pay attention to what your body tells you</h2><p>If it hurts, don’t do it. No matter how much you may want to push yourself, the “no pain, no gain” mentality is outdated and unhealthy. Yes, yoga can be uncomfortable at times. But there’s a big difference between discomfort and actual pain.</p><p>Listen to your body! Many yoga injuries occur because yogis are trying to master a certain pose before their body is ready. Preventing yoga injuries may mean you have to be more patient with yourself, modify, and/or use props until your body is ready to progress safely.</p><p>An excellent yoga teacher can also help you honor your body’s limitations.</p><p></p><h2>5. Protect your shoulders</h2><p>While good alignment is key to preventing yoga injuries and protecting your joints, it’s easy to overuse the tendons and ligaments in your shoulder joints if you practice yoga often. Jump backs, Chaturanga, and planks can be very hard on your shoulders if done incorrectly or too often.</p><p>If you practice yoga every day, modify your practice by dropping your knees or skipping Chaturanga altogether sometimes to prevent injury to the shoulder joints.</p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/MczvTfUOSZKvEUmyKdE7\" alt=\"_DSC7496.JPG\" title=\"_DSC7496.JPG\" width=\"6048\" height=\"4024\" /><h2>6. Protect your hips and lower back</h2><p>Do you warm up before your yoga practice? Does your yoga teacher lead a thorough warm up? Warming up prevents yoga injuries, and if you’re not taking this important step in your yoga practice, it’s important to start!</p><p>A good warm up and good yoga alignment are two great ways to protect your lower back and hips during your yoga practice. Here are a few more:</p><p></p><ul><li><div><p>Sit on a bolster or blocks for seated forward bends and twists</p></div></li><li><div><p>Only go as far as your body wants to go (don’t force it)</p></div></li><li><div><p>Keep your core engaged to protect your lower back</p></div></li><li><div><p>Balance flexibility with strength training for back and hip areas</p></div></li></ul><p>While these tips are meant to guide you and help you and help you prevent yoga injuries, they are also meant to encourage you! You <em>can</em> accomplish your yoga goals safely. </p><p>One of the very best ways to grow in your yoga practice and prevent injury is to take classes with an experienced, highly qualified yoga teacher. </p><p>MyYogaTeacher offers 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:</p><ul><li><div><strong>Radiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness</strong></div></li></ul><ul><li><div><p><strong>42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Discounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Making new like-minded friends from around the world</strong></p></div></li></ul><p><a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\"><u>Grab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!</u></a></p><p></p>"},"category":[],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":[{"session_uuid":"11f78433-4d20-4dca-b931-bdceccdc3000","student_uuid":"04f2f4f2-f580-42f3-98fd-dc8581fd5363","teacher_uuid":"b7a7a820-94e1-4e2d-be39-5f76419c1598","teacher_name":"Anuj Poonia","teacher_first_name":"Anuj","teacher_slug":"anuj-1","teacher_photo":"https://res.cloudinary.com/dgerdfai4/image/upload/v1589802902/teacher/photos/uthrp4fnf8brrqa9xqv7.jpg","group_session_name":"Find Your Flow with Vinyasa Yoga","group_session_description":"Discover the dynamic and invigorating practice of Vinyasa Yoga. 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