In my new blog column I introduce you to my fascinating world of yoga and answer important questions about everything the modern yoga heart desires. These can be asanas, tips and tricks, common mistakes that we uncover using the AHA effect or recipes that are not only delicious but also healthy.
#1: VISVAMITRASANA
The first part is about a complex arm balance with many faces. My first experimental experience with Visva failed miserably: cold (without having warmed up intelligently beforehand) and with a good deal of ignorance (oh saw a photo on Insta, I have to try it straight away, I can definitely do it) and boom. I immediately lay on the floor and didn't even come close to getting in. The side plank, VASISTASANA, is not that dissimilar to this asana and acts like a little brother, which is definitely part of sensible preparation because it builds up the supporting strength in the torso and legs. There are 2 ways to practice Visvamitrasana: either with the leg in front of the arm, or behind the arm (for me the easier option because of the lever).
TO USE:
- Chest opener
- stabilizes the shoulder joints
- strengthens the legs and core muscles
- wonderfully stretches the insides of the legs, hamstrings and side
PREPARATION ASANAS:
-Virabhadrasana 2
- Lunge/lizard
-Ardha Malasana
- Parivritta Janu Shirshasana
- Vasistasana
- Baddha Parshvakonasana
HOW TO VARIANT 1: From the DOWNDOG, lift your right leg backwards as you inhale, and as you exhale pull your right knee towards your chest and directly over to your left elbow. Extend your right leg (possibly) without touching the ground to the left side into the air, tilting your left heel to the ground, like the back foot of Warrior 2. Raise your right hand and your left foot to form your (potentially wobbly ) foundation. Grab your right foot with your left hand and now stretch your right leg forward until you take the shape of a blite. Your left arm is now (hopefully) above your left ear. Over a vinyasa, switch sides!
HOW TO VARIANT 2: From the DOWN DOG, lift your right leg backwards as you inhale, and as you exhale, place your right foot forward for the lunge. Slide as much of your right shoulder UNDER the back of your right knee as possible. Now place your left heel on the floor. Push yourself away from the floor with your right hand and now grab the outside of your right foot with your left hand. Tip: Place your back foot a little more to the left to make your base more stable. Now stretch your right leg and rotate your chest towards the ceiling. Over a vinyasa, switch sides!
And? Done? Which option do you find easier/more accessible? Don't worry if it doesn't work right away. Some things take time and extensive preparation! Have fun practicing!
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Namacray, Jelena