Paryankasana using blocks
I enjoy practising Paryankasana with a vertical block under my thoracic spine because it gives lift to a part of my back that is challenging to access otherwise. I use the block under my forearms to push against, and this…
Salabhasana using a wall
Changing the orientation of Salabhasana by using a wall helps me to access my upper back. My shoulder blades dig nicely into my back and from the sharp upward extension of my legs, my entire spine can curl back. My…
Parivrtta Trikonasana using the trestle
Using the trestle for Parivrtta Trikonasana gives me the stability to extend the trunk further and access a deeper twist. The feedback I get from having my back body touching something helps me align my head, ribcage, and pelvis…
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana using a block
The block in this Setu Bandha Sarvangasana stabilizes my sacrum. I love it at the end of a practice because the extra stability helps my spine to relax and soften. - Kara Thorsen, Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher
Building strength for Nakrasana
A couple of years ago, I finally faced the challenge of developing strength for Nakrasana. I could hold Chaturanga Dandasana just fine, but, when I tried to jump, my crocodile looked more like a slithering snake. Friends made suggestions; none…
Adho Mukha Vrksasana using blocks
I like to use blocks under my hands in Adho Mukha Vrksasana because it increases the integrity of my upper arm muscles and takes the pose out of my elbow joints. Working like this helps me to improve my strength…
Pincha Mayurasana using a chair
I like to use the chair in Pincha Mayurasana because it helps me to open up my tight shoulders. With the help of the chair, I can also access more lift and extension in my chest than otherwise. - Devin…
Step Gently Aside
Libby Yager is an Iyengar yoga student at Prana Yoga in Winnipeg Manitoba. Each year she travels to Kenya to work with traumatized young women. She teaches Iyengar yoga to them as part of their healing therapy. She is also…